LAGOS – Following the increasing spate of touts and touting activities at the nation’s airports, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has set up a joint task force to tackle the menace.
The joint task force comprised Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel, a department in FAAN and the Nigeria Air Force (NAF).
An internal memo dated, June 21, 2024 with the head: ‘Touting/Illicit Activities At The Airports,’ distributed to all directors and airport managers in FAAN, signed by Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director, FAAN and obtained by Daily Independent, indicated that the taskforce would commence work on Monday, June 24, 2024 nationwide.
To lead this joint task force is Mr. Henry Agbebire, Director of Special Duties, FAAN, as its Chairman.
Kuku insisted that it was high time illicit activities were stopped across the nation’s nation’s airports.
She warned that any individual or organization caught in the dastardly act would be dealt with according to the laws of the land.
The memo read in part: “Any individual or organization caught in violation or conducting any such activities, which include touting, loitering or illicit activities within the airports will be duly prosecuted and fined accordingly to the FAAN bye-laws,
Kuku in a recent interview with the media, had expressed deep concern over the ongoing harassment and extortion of passengers at the airports.
She vowed to create a seamless and pleasant experience for travellers at the country’s airports.
The Chief Executive has also declared her intention to personally engage with all government agencies operating at the airports to ensure compliance with the anti-touting and anti-extortion measures.
She maintained that the era of business as usual was over and highlighted the administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct.
Besides, she emphasised that a Magistrate Court would be established at international airports to expedite the legal process for prosecuting offenders.
The task force has been mandated to enforce discipline among airport staff and maintain a culture of professionalism at all levels.
In addition, she declared that dedicated phone lines and QR codes would be set up to provide passengers with a means of providing feedback on their airport experience.
She further directed all airport personnel to prominently display their on-duty cards and name tags for easy identification and accountability.
She pointed out that FAAN would continue to deliver exceptional service and ensure a safe and secure environment for all passengers and airport users.
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