The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has issued a warning to individuals illegally accessing restricted areas of airports, particularly the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, to stop immediately. According to Afegbai Igbafe, the Director of Aviation Security Services, there are frequent incidents of intrusion, with as many as 20 to 30 cases occurring each night at the Lagos airport alone.
Igbafe emphasized the challenges posed by damaged perimeter fencing, often destroyed by neighboring communities, which has contributed to the security breaches. He also highlighted the difficulties in prosecuting intruders due to the current legal system, as many offenders are released shortly after being handed over to the police. To address this, FAAN is working with the Attorney General of the state to establish mobile courts that can handle these cases more swiftly.
To enhance security, FAAN plans to implement access control measures to address gaps identified by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). These measures will include rigorous checks on individuals entering the airport, particularly concessionaires and unauthorized security personnel. Additionally, FAAN has upgraded CCTV cameras and introduced joint patrols involving the military, Air Force, and Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel to monitor and protect the airport’s perimeter areas.
Igbafe also mentioned the recent launch of an armed unit within AVSEC to further bolster security at Nigeria’s airports.
