FAAN Launches “Operation Air Clean” to Tackle Touting and Corruption at Nigerian Airports

In response to Senator Osita Izunaso’s recent criticism of “national embarrassment” caused by touting and begging at Nigerian airports, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has unveiled a comprehensive plan to improve airport operations and passenger experience.

FAAN’s strategy, outlined in a document titled “Position Document on Measures to Address Corrupt Practices and Enhance Passenger Experience at MMIA and GAT” and signed by Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, was developed following an emergency high-level meeting with FAAN’s Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, and heads of other airport agencies.

The initiative, named Operation Air Clean, targets the elimination of corrupt practices, enhanced transparency, and smoother airport operations, particularly at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) and the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) in Lagos.

Key measures include replacing joint inspection tables with intelligence-driven passenger screening, individual profiling, and camera-based monitoring. The Department of State Services (DSS) and Immigration Service will now share counters to improve passenger flow, while Customs officers will relocate to screening points to handle money declarations.

FAAN also plans to introduce more transparent secondary screenings. Arriving passengers will be screened in designated profiling rooms at Terminals 1 and 2, with real-time displays showing the names, agencies, and contacts of officers on duty. NDLEA personnel will conduct roving checks in partnership with AVSEC, while DSS officers monitor departures and screening areas.

To enforce the new policies, a mobile court will be activated immediately to prosecute touts and other offenders. A secure meet-and-greet area will be created for visitors receiving passengers, and Bureau De Change (BDC) and car-hire operators found loitering or operating outside designated areas will face prosecution, possible shutdowns, and withdrawal of terminal operating rights.

At GAT, FAAN will introduce timed parking, limit car-hire vehicles, and intensify efforts to curb touting and passenger harassment.

Minister Keyamo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reforming airport management nationwide, with FAAN reportedly appealing to the National Security Adviser’s office for urgent implementation of the measures.

Through Operation Air Clean, FAAN aims to create a safer, more efficient, and transparent airport environment, marking a decisive step toward professionalising Nigeria’s aviation sector.