Can FAAN Eradicate Airport Touting and Extortion? 

Tackling Persistent Challenges in Nigeria’s Aviation Sector

For decades, Nigerian airports have been plagued by touting and extortion, issues that compromise passenger comfort and damage the nation’s global reputation. These challenges, marked by unauthorized personnel soliciting services or demanding bribes, create insecurity and discomfort for travelers.

In a decisive step toward addressing long-standing issues of touting and harassment at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, convened a strategic meeting with security agency heads on December 2, 2024.

At the meeting, Mrs. Kuku introduced “Operation AirClean,” a comprehensive initiative designed to eradicate extortion, touting, and unprofessional behavior among airport personnel. She emphasized that this mission has the full endorsement of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, and declared that “it is no longer business as usual.”

Speaking at a recent stakeholders’ forum, she highlighted the significance of this mission:

“We understand that airports serve as gateways to Nigeria, and first impressions matter. By eradicating touting and extortion, we enhance passenger experience and elevate Nigeria’s standing in the global aviation community.”

Learning from International Success Stories

The new FAAN initiative is modeled on successful interventions worldwide. Singapore’s Changi Airport, known for its exceptional service, overcame similar issues through strict enforcement and advanced technology. Likewise, South Africa’s OR Tambo International Airport utilized community-based engagement and intensive staff training to address these challenges.

Mrs. Kuku believes that integrating global best practices with local solutions will bring transformative change. FAAN is collaborating with security agencies and deploying advanced surveillance technologies to detect and remove unauthorized personnel swiftly.

Industry Experts Weigh In

Aviation expert commended FAAN’s approach but stressed the importance of sustainability. “Touting and extortion thrive in environments with weak enforcement. This initiative must be consistently monitored and evaluated to ensure lasting results,” said.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Addressing systemic issues such as staff welfare, passenger education, and community engagement is critical for success. While enforcement is vital, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence within the aviation sector remains equally essential.

Mrs. Kuku’s decisive leadership has renewed optimism, but can FAAN truly eradicate these entrenched practices? Sustained commitment and collaborative efforts will determine whether Nigerian airports can set a new benchmark for operational excellence in Africa.

The Broader Context: Touting and Extortion at Airports Globally and in Africa

Global Perspective

Touting: This practice involves unauthorized individuals soliciting passengers for services, such as baggage handling or unapproved transport. Regions with weak regulatory enforcement, such as parts of South Asia and South America, often experience similar issues.

Extortion: Corruption at airports frequently involves officials soliciting bribes for expedited services or customs clearance, as seen in parts of Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

African Experience

Nigeria: At Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport, passengers frequently report being asked for “facilitation fees” to clear luggage. Efforts to curb these practices include installing CCTV and stricter monitoring.

Kenya: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport faces complaints about unlicensed taxi operators and touts. Public awareness campaigns have been launched by the Kenya Airports Authority to address these issues.

South Africa: OR Tambo International Airport has reduced instances of bribery through stricter regulations and enhanced surveillance.

Challenges in Eradicating Touting and Extortion

1. Policy Enforcement: Insufficient regulatory oversight hampers effective action.

2. Passenger Awareness: Many travelers, especially first-timers, remain unaware of their rights.

3. Economic Pressures: Low wages among airport staff drive some into corrupt practices.

Pathways Forward

1. Technological Advancements: Deploy advanced surveillance and automate processes like immigration and customs checks.

2. Capacity Building: Train staff on ethics and anti-corruption practices while offering fair wages and incentives.

3. Public Education: Launch campaigns to inform passengers about their rights and how to report incidents.

4. Collaborative Efforts: Governments, airlines, and international bodies like ICAO must work together to implement robust anti-touting and anti-corruption frameworks.

By adopting global best practices and fostering a culture of accountability, FAAN’s initiative has the potential to redefine airport operations in Nigeria. While challenges remain, this reform could serve as a model for other African nations, enhancing the integrity of aviation across the continent.