The Nigerian aviation sector is addressing the persistent issue of harassment at airports with a robust multi-agency approach. Leading the charge, the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, under the stewardship of Minister Festus Keyamo, has introduced measures to enhance passenger comfort and security. Efforts to tackle harassment at these facilities are gaining momentum as stakeholders collaborate to ensure accountability across all operational areas.
During a recent briefing, Minister Keyamo emphasized that harassment incidents often involve agencies beyond the aviation ministry’s direct oversight. He clarified, “We are the landlords and owners of the airports, but harassment is not an aviation issue alone. We have raised this concern with the National Security Advisor (NSA), who has been proactive in addressing the matter.” This underscores the government’s recognition of the problem’s complexity and its commitment to resolving it effectively.
One major initiative includes deploying 1,000 body cameras for use by various airport agencies. These cameras, linked to a centralized command center, will provide real-time surveillance to ensure transparency and accountability. Minister Keyamo affirmed, “The training for operating the body cameras is almost complete, and this system will significantly reduce harassment incidents.” These efforts to tackle harassment reflect a modernized approach to curbing the issue and safeguarding passenger rights.
Moreover, the Minister lauded recent collaborations with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) aimed at curbing illegal activities within airport premises. He praised NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd) for his leadership in these efforts. A recent operation exposed a drug smuggling attempt involving an airline, reinforcing the importance of inter-agency coordination.
The government’s actions reflect a firm resolve to eliminate harassment at Nigerian airports and uphold professional standards among all involved agencies. These initiatives align with a broader vision to make the country’s airports more passenger-friendly while enhancing their global reputation.
Switching focus to private airstrips, Minister Keyamo provided clarity on the Federal Government’s rigorous licensing framework and addressed concerns raised by lawmakers. He explained that private airstrips, which have been part of Nigeria’s aviation landscape for decades, serve essential purposes. These include supporting schools, universities, and industries requiring specialized transport for goods and equipment.
Highlighting the approval process, the Minister described its thoroughness, emphasizing that no shortcuts exist. “Approval is not an overnight decision by the Minister. It takes months or even years, as agencies review various factors like terrain suitability and safety. The NCAA then forwards its recommendations to the Minister, who considers all inputs before granting final approval,” he explained.
Responding to security concerns about potential misuse of private airstrips, the Minister acknowledged the lawmakers’ vigilance. He noted that fears of activities like money laundering, drug trafficking, or contraband smuggling are valid but assured the public that current frameworks mitigate these risks. “The licensing framework ensures oversight. We must also commend the patriotic efforts of lawmakers raising these issues,” he stated.
While reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring that all approvals align with security protocols, the Minister emphasized the economic importance of private airstrips. He noted their role in driving industrial growth while ensuring alignment with broader national interests.
Finally, government’s multifaceted approach to resolving airport harassment and regulating private airstrips reflects accountability and economic development. Stakeholders remain optimistic that these reforms will elevate Nigeria’s aviation industry to global standards.
