The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has issued a stern warning and activated stringent internal controls to curb illicit solicitation and extortion by its personnel at the nation's airports during the Christmas and New Year holiday season.
Zero-Tolerance on Extortion and "Corporate Begging"
In a firm declaration, FAAN's management has stressed its zero-tolerance policy towards unethical conduct, including what it terms "corporate begging." The agency warned that any official found engaging in extortion or soliciting money from passengers will face immediate disciplinary action.
Henry Agbebire, FAAN's Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, disclosed this stance in an interview, emphasizing the authority's commitment to protecting travelers from inconvenience and unethical practices throughout the festive rush.
Enhanced Security and Traffic Management for Peak Season
Anticipating a significant surge in passenger traffic, FAAN has rolled out additional operational and security measures, with a special focus on the bustling Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos.
A key part of this plan is the deployment of more than 80 extra security personnel approved by FAAN's Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku. These officers are specifically tasked with crowd control and traffic management, particularly during peak arrival periods to ease congestion.
Agbebire explained that the agency's planning was guided by advanced passenger traffic forecasts. The situation is further complicated by the planned post-holiday shutdown of Terminal 1 for renovation.
Passenger Support and Infrastructure Updates
To improve the passenger experience, FAAN has strengthened its support services. A dedicated augmentation team, identifiable by special shirts and jackets, has been deployed to key airport areas to provide real-time information and queue-management support.
Agbebire acknowledged that the ongoing construction of a new terminal has reduced operational space. However, he assured that a temporary terminal facility is expected to be completed by the second week of January 2026 to alleviate pressure.
Furthermore, FAAN is enhancing inter-agency coordination. The authority is working closely with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to streamline procedures and reduce processing delays for travelers.
Background: Cashless System Expansion
This crackdown on extortion aligns with FAAN's broader push for modernization and transparency. The agency recently kicked off a cashless payment system at Nigerian airports, starting with pilot phases in Lagos and Abuja.
The system, which will be implemented at access gates, car parks, and lounges, aims to boost revenue and reduce cash-handling incidents. FAAN is targeting full nationwide implementation by the first quarter of 2026.
FAAN reaffirms its commitment to ensuring safe, orderly, and seamless airport services for all passengers during the Christmas period and beyond.
