The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) have announced plans to decrease the number of military and paramilitary personnel involved in multiple baggage checks at Nigeria’s international airports, aiming to alleviate delays and inconveniences experienced by travellers.
For years, passengers passing through Nigeria’s international airports have voiced grievances over the repetitive baggage checks conducted by numerous security agencies within airport terminals.
Aviation industry experts have advocated for a streamlined approach to these checks, suggesting a reduction in personnel and the adoption of a centralized inspection system.
Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of FAAN, revealed that the agency and the NSA have devised short and long-term strategies to address the issue.
”These include establishing a joint coordination room equipped with CCTV cameras, allowing all agencies to monitor passenger activities more efficiently,” she stated.
Kuku expressed concern over the situation, highlighting her involvement in discussions with the National Security Adviser, Mr. Nuhu Ribadu, to streamline airport facilitation processes.
She emphasized the need to reduce the number of agencies present at airports, particularly those conducting routine observations rather than essential security operations.
”In the long term, the collaboration aims to establish a joint coordination room where agencies can view CCTV footage and focus on specific areas of concern, such as baggage handling areas, without disrupting passenger flow,” she noted.
Regarding the opening of passengers’ baggage, Kuku clarified that it serves a security purpose, particularly in response to issues with scanning devices originating from certain countries.
She assured travellers that efforts are underway to implement dual-view cameras and secondary screening methods that minimize the need for physical bag inspections.
Kuku acknowledged the importance of coordination in addressing the challenges, highlighting the support of the NSA in facilitating improvements at Nigerian airports.
She urged passengers to bear with the authorities as they work towards enhancing airport security and efficiency.
”Our aim is to create a safer and more streamlined airport experience for travellers,” she added.
