The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has launched Operation Air Clean, a comprehensive initiative aimed at eliminating corrupt practices and improving passenger experience at key airports, including the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) and the General Aviation Terminal (GAT).
The move follows an emergency high-level meeting led by the FAAN Managing Director and attended by heads of various aviation agencies, with the full endorsement of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
In a statement issued on December 2, 2024, on X, FAAN reaffirmed its commitment to achieving world-class standards in service delivery, security, and passenger satisfaction across Nigeria’s airports.
The operation is particularly focused on addressing challenges during the high-volume end-of-year travel season.
According to the statement, the measures outlined aim to curb illicit activities and improve transparency, with the goal of enhancing the overall travel experience.
Among the resolutions for MMIA, FAAN has announced the immediate dissolution of joint inspection tables by security agencies, transitioning to intelligence-based searches, scanners, and individual profiling.
A dedicated area for camera-based passenger observation will also be developed. To streamline passenger processing, personnel from the Department of State Services (DSS) and Immigration Services will share counters, reducing checkpoints for outbound passengers.
Additionally, Customs will relocate to the AVSEC screening point for money declarations.
To ensure transparency during searches, secondary screenings will be conducted in profiling rooms at Terminals 1 and 2, with real-time screens displaying the names, agencies, and contact details of officers on duty. FAAN also plans to redefine agency roles, with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) partnering with AVSEC at screening points and conducting roving checks in the arrival hall, while DSS officers will patrol departure and screening areas.
The initiative also includes the swift activation of a mobile court to expedite the prosecution of offenders, especially touts.
FAAN has committed to a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct, with immediate prosecution for any BDC or car hire staff found loitering or engaging in unauthorized activities. Businesses found in violation will face shutdowns and revocation of operating rights at the terminals. Additionally, enhanced lighting and signage will be introduced to improve passenger experience.
For the General Aviation Terminal (GAT), a timed parking system will be introduced, with payment required for both short and long-term parking. Car hire vehicle numbers will be regulated to ensure order in the car park, and strict measures will be enforced to eradicate touting and harassment of passengers.
The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development expressed strong support for the reforms, saying,
“The Federal Government is committed to ensuring our airports operate at the highest standards of security, service delivery, and transparency. These reforms are a critical step toward transforming the passenger experience and addressing systemic challenges.”
The Minister commended FAAN for its proactive leadership and assured Nigerians of the government’s continued support in advancing the aviation sector. He called for the collaboration of all stakeholders, airport users, and the general public in supporting Operation Air Clean to create a safer, more efficient, and passenger-friendly environment.
FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, reiterated the importance of these measures in achieving the government’s vision of aligning Nigerian airports with international standards of efficiency and transparency.
FAAN also urged stakeholders to cooperate as they collectively work towards building a more secure and efficient airport environment, particularly during the busy end-of-year travel period.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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