Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku
Launches “Operation AirClean” to Tackle Bribery, Harassment, and Improve Passenger Experience
The Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has issued a strong warning to airport security officials against soliciting bribes from passengers. Speaking during a critical meeting with the heads of security agencies at Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA) in Lagos on Tuesday, Kuku emphasized that the airport is a gateway to the nation and not a venue for personal enrichment.
“This must stop immediately,” Kuku stated firmly, warning that any official caught engaging in such practices would face severe penalties.
The meeting, which included representatives from agencies like Nigeria Immigration Services (NIS), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and others, addressed long-standing issues of harassment and touting at Nigeria’s busiest airport. Complaints about such behavior, from both local and international passengers, had reached alarming levels, prompting this decisive intervention.
Introducing “Operation AirClean”
To address these concerns, Kuku unveiled “Operation AirClean,” a robust initiative aimed at sanitizing airport operations. Backed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), the initiative focuses on:
- Eliminating corrupt practices among officers.
- Dismantling manual search tables at screening points.
- Deploying technology to enhance security checks and reduce intrusive manual searches.
“The airport is often the first impression visitors have of Nigeria. What they experience here matters for our reputation and our ability to attract investors,” Kuku explained.
Mystery Shoppers and Stiff Penalties
Kuku announced plans to deploy mystery shoppers equipped with body cameras to monitor officials’ conduct discreetly. This step aims to ensure accountability and identify officers engaging in unethical practices.
She also issued a warning to agency leaders, highlighting that they would be held responsible for the actions of their subordinates. “If your officers are found guilty, it reflects your failure as a leader. This culture of kickbacks must end.”
Collaboration Among Agencies
Recognizing the need for a united front, Kuku called for stronger collaboration and intelligence sharing among all security agencies at the airport. Heads of the represented agencies pledged to enhance oversight and maintain discipline among their personnel.
To further ensure orderliness, FAAN plans to establish secure waiting areas for visitors and introduce mobile courts to expedite the prosecution of offenders.
With “Operation AirClean,” FAAN aims to restore dignity and professionalism at Nigeria’s airports, promising a better experience for passengers and a more welcoming environment for investors.
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