FAAN begins Airport reforms, vows zero tolerance for touting and corruption nationwide

By Obasola Olatunde

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has unveiled a sweeping reform agenda tagged “Operation Air Clean”, introducing strict measures to eliminate touting, begging, and other corrupt practices across the nation’s airports, particularly at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) and General Aviation Terminal (GAT) in Lagos.

The move follows a recent Senate outcry led by Senator Osita Izunaso, who described touting at airports as a “national embarrassment.” In response, FAAN said the new initiative aims to restore order, enhance transparency, and improve passenger experience.

The reform framework, contained in a document titled “Position Document on Measures to Address Corrupt Practices and Enhance Passenger Experience at MMIA and GAT,” was endorsed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and developed after a high-level meeting involving FAAN’s Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, and heads of key airport agencies.

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

FAAN also announced the activation of a mobile court for immediate prosecution of touts and violators, as well as the creation of a designated meet-and-greet area to reduce congestion around terminals.

“Businesses found loitering or operating outside approved zones, including Bureau De Change and car hire operators, risk shutdowns and withdrawal of operating rights,” the document stated.

The agency plans to display real-time information screens showing names, agencies, and contact details of officers on duty to ensure accountability and transparency during passenger searches.

At GAT, FAAN will also implement a timed parking system, regulate the number of car hire vehicles, and intensify efforts to eradicate touting and harassment of travelers.

Minister Keyamo, endorsing the policy, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reform airport operations nationwide, saying the initiative will professionalize the sector and restore public confidence.

Multiple ministry sources confirmed that FAAN will also write to the National Security Adviser’s office to fast track implementation of the new policy.

With Operation Air Clean, FAAN says it is determined to build a safer, more efficient, and transparent airport environment, marking a decisive shift toward modern, corruption free aviation management in Nigeria.