In a decisive move to tackle the persistent issue of touting and illegal activities at Nigerian airports, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has launched an armed Aviation Security (AVSEC) unit at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos.

This was announced by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, via a statement on X.com on Monday.

The newly formed unit is tasked with the arrest and prosecution of touts and other suspected criminals operating within airport premises. Minister Keyamo highlighted that this initiative aims to create a safer and more secure environment for passengers and airport users. The security measures will also be extended to other international airports across the country.

In his statement, Minister Keyamo said, “As part of the steps we earlier promised Nigerians to take to curb the menace of touting and other illegal activities around our airports, earlier today the Managing Director of FAAN, on my behalf, unveiled the armed Aviation Security (AVSEC) unit at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos. We will replicate it at other international airports. They have the mandate to arrest and prosecute touts and other suspected criminals around our airports.”

The minister also addressed the broader issue of extortion and bribery by government agency officials at airports. While acknowledging that the matter extends beyond the aviation ministry’s control, he reassured the public that efforts are being made in collaboration with other relevant ministries to find a lasting solution. This statement was in response to numerous complaints from travelers regarding extortion by airport officials.