The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has initiated a significant internal review targeting past recruitment exercises, a move that could lead to the demotion of more than 300 employees. The probe focuses on alleged irregularities and job racketeering in hiring processes conducted between 2015 and 2017, as well as the controversial 2019 intake.
Scope of the FAAN Recruitment Investigation
According to authoritative sources, the review ordered by FAAN's Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, is a direct response to long-standing concerns about the fairness and transparency of certain employment procedures. The agency confirmed the exercise in an official statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire.
The investigation is zeroing in on two major recruitment periods. The first covers the exercises carried out from 2015 to 2017. The second, and perhaps more contentious, is the 2019 recruitment famously known for the "AFAKA Boys." This batch was executed under the tenure of the former Aviation Minister, Senator Hadi Sirika.
FAAN management states the core objective is to ensure fairness, transparency, and strict adherence to federal government recruitment guidelines. The agency emphasized that this audit is part of a broader effort to strengthen professionalism and compliance within its human resource operations.
Potential Impact on Fire Service and Aviation Security Staff
Insiders reveal that the employees most likely to be affected by the outcome of this review are those working in the Fire Service and Aviation Security (AVSEC) departments. The recruitment rounds in question were reportedly aimed at filling positions at Levels 4 and 6.
However, investigations suggest a pattern of misconduct where some applicants, despite possessing higher academic qualifications, allegedly submitted lower-level certificates to secure these entry-level jobs. The "AFAKA Boys" recruitment alone involved approximately 300 individuals hired in two batches, with a similar number believed to have been employed during the 2015-2017 period.
The primary consequence for those found culpable is expected to be demotion to lower ranks that match the certificates they originally presented for employment. This corrective measure aims to restore order and meritocracy within the agency's workforce structure.
Addressing Inequity and Triggering Complaints
The review was reportedly spurred by internal grievances and complaints of inequity. Sources indicate that after gaining employment in 2019, some recruits who had initially submitted lower certificates later presented their genuine higher qualifications and were subsequently promoted.
This privilege, however, was not extended to all, with many staff lacking the necessary internal connections left behind at their entry-level positions. This perceived injustice created friction and formal complaints, ultimately prompting the current verification exercise to ensure a uniform and fair application of rules for all employees.
FAAN has reassured its staff that this process is not punitive but is intended to uphold integrity and organizational efficiency. The authority insists that all career progression must follow established regulations designed to ensure competence and fairness.
This development occurs alongside positive news in Nigeria's aviation sector, with indigenous carrier Air Peace announcing a major Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility project in Lagos, which is set to create up to 50,000 jobs.
