The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has launched a new initiative, “Operation AirClean,” aimed at eliminating touting and harassment of passengers at Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA) in Lagos.
The initiative was launched, by Managing Director FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku in a meeting with heads of all security agencies at the airport.
Mrs. Kuku emphasized the need for a collaborative effort to improve the overall travel experience at the airport, eliminate extortion and harassment of passengers, and eradicate touting activities.
She also ordered the immediate dismantling of search tables at screening points and mandated the use of technology to reduce manual searches and improve interactions with passengers.
According to her, the initiative aims to improve collaboration among agencies, streamline passenger search processes, and enhance service delivery.
Mrs. Kuku reaffirmed that FAAN directors will actively engage in monitoring efforts, and existing task forces will intensify their activities and any officer found guilty of misconduct must be reported to their agency head without delay.
She explained that FAAN will deploy mystery shoppers equipped with body cameras to assess the performance of officials at both arrival and departure security and screening areas.
The heads of security agencies committed to heightened oversight of their officers, ensuring accountability on duty.
It was also resolved that secure and designated areas will be provided as waiting areas for visitors, and mobile courts will be set up for expedited prosecution of offenders.
The launch of “Operation AirClean” marks a significant step towards enhancing the passenger experience at Nigerian airports.
With the commitment of all stakeholders, the initiative is expected to bring about a significant improvement in the efficiency and effectiveness of airport operations.
The meeting was attended by representatives from the Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Immigration Services, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Nigerian Quarantine Services, Nigerian Police Force, Directorate of Security Services, Nigerian Customs Services, and Aviation Security Services.
