In response to Senator Osita Izunaso’s recent condemnation of touting and begging at Nigerian airports, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has unveiled a comprehensive plan to clean up airport operations and enhance the passenger experience.

Outlined in a document titled “Position Document on Measures to Address Corrupt Practices and Enhance Passenger Experience at MMIA and GAT” and signed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, the framework introduces Operation Air Clean, a coordinated initiative targeting corrupt practices, improving transparency, and streamlining airport operations at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) and the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) in Lagos.

Key measures include the dissolution of joint inspection tables by security agencies, to be replaced with intelligence-driven passenger screening, individual profiling, and camera-based monitoring. The Department of State Services (DSS) and the Immigration Service will share counters to ease passenger flow, while Customs officers will relocate to Aviation Security (AVSEC) screening points for money declaration.

FAAN is also introducing transparent passenger search procedures. Secondary screenings for arriving passengers will now occur in designated profiling rooms at Terminals 1 and 2, with real-time screens displaying the names, agencies, and contact information of officers on duty.

Agency roles are being redefined to strengthen enforcement: NDLEA officers will partner with AVSEC at screening points and conduct roving checks, while DSS personnel will maintain surveillance around departure and screening areas.

The document emphasizes:

Shared counters by DSS and Immigration Service to reduce outbound passenger checkpoints.

Customs relocation to AVSEC screening points.

Secondary screening in profiling rooms at Terminals 1 and 2.

Real-time display of officer details to ensure accountability.

To further curb misconduct, FAAN is activating a mobile court to handle touting and related offenses immediately. Secure meet-and-greet areas will reduce terminal congestion for visitors receiving passengers. The authority also warned that Bureau De Change (BDC) and car-hire operators found loitering or operating outside approved zones will face immediate prosecution, potential shutdowns, and revocation of operating rights.

At GAT, a timed parking system will be implemented for short- and long-term users, the number of car-hire vehicles will be limited, and measures to eliminate touting and passenger harassment will be intensified.

Minister Festus Keyamo endorsed the policy, reaffirming the government’s commitment to reforming airport management nationwide. FAAN management has indicated plans to appeal to the office of the National Security Adviser for urgent implementation of the new measures.

With Operation Air Clean, FAAN aims to provide a safer, more efficient, and transparent airport environment, signaling a decisive step toward professionalising Nigeria’s aviation sector.