FAAN Declares Zero-Tolerance Policy Against Touting at Airports

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced the enforcement of a zero-tolerance policy against touting and extortion across all Nigerian airports, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring a safe, seamless, and passenger-friendly travel experience.

In a statement issued in Lagos, the Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, said the agency has intensified surveillance and security operations to curb the activities of touts, illegal operatives, and unscrupulous staff involved in extortion and harassment of travellers. She described the move as part of FAAN’s broader reform to restore order and uphold Nigeria’s reputation as a hospitable aviation destination.

Kuku stated that FAAN has deployed additional security personnel, including plain-clothed officers, to monitor airport terminals, car parks, and access gates where touting activities are most prevalent. “We have resolved to make Nigeria’s airports free from all forms of harassment and extortion. Any individual or staff found culpable will be immediately sanctioned and handed over to the appropriate authorities,” she said.

She added that FAAN is working closely with the Aviation Security (AVSEC) unit, Nigerian Police Force, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and other agencies operating at airports to ensure strict enforcement of the new directive. “We are collaborating with all relevant agencies to rid the airports of bad elements who tarnish our image. This is a joint effort and we are taking it very seriously,” Kuku emphasised.

Over the years, touting, bribery, and unregulated passenger assistance have been persistent problems at Nigerian airports, especially in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Kano, where complaints from travellers—both local and international—have been rampant. Passengers have often reported harassment by individuals offering unsolicited help with baggage, demanding tips, or attempting to extort money under the guise of facilitating services.

FAAN’s new policy follows multiple stakeholder consultations and a directive from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who earlier vowed to sanitise the aviation sector and restore passenger confidence. Keyamo had in August issued a stern warning to all airport workers and government agencies, stating that touting and extortion would no longer be tolerated under his administration.

According to Mrs. Kuku, the authority has begun installing advanced surveillance cameras and automated access systems to reduce human interference in key airport processes. She said, “We are adopting technology-driven monitoring to detect misconduct in real time. Our aim is to eliminate opportunities for extortion and to hold every airport worker accountable for their actions.”

The FAAN boss also noted that the zero-tolerance policy will extend beyond security checkpoints to include parking areas, taxi bays, and cargo sections where unauthorised individuals often operate. She said that new signages have been placed across terminals to warn passengers and airport staff about the consequences of engaging in or supporting touting activities.

“Passengers are encouraged to report any suspicious behaviour or request for money to our airport managers or through our dedicated hotlines. We have improved our feedback mechanism to ensure swift response and investigation,” Kuku stated.

FAAN, she said, has also launched a sensitisation campaign aimed at educating airport users and staff on ethical conduct and passenger rights. “We are training personnel to adopt a customer-centric mindset. Our goal is to make Nigerian airports not only efficient but also welcoming for all travellers,” she explained.

A senior FAAN official who spoke on condition of anonymity said several arrests have already been made in the past two weeks as part of the renewed crackdown. “Some staff and unauthorized individuals caught engaging in touting or collecting illegal levies have been apprehended. They will face disciplinary and legal actions,” the official said.

Aviation unions and stakeholders have commended the initiative, describing it as a long-overdue step to restore sanity at the nation’s gateways. The President of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), Comrade Frances Akinjole, lauded FAAN for the move, saying it would enhance Nigeria’s international image and attract more foreign travellers.

“Touting and extortion at airports have been a major embarrassment for the industry. FAAN’s determination to stop it is commendable. We hope this policy will be sustained and not just a one-time operation,” Akinjole said.

Some travellers at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) also expressed optimism about the new directive. A passenger, Mr. Paul Nnaji, said, “This is a good development. The moment you arrive at the airport, people start asking for tips. If FAAN can really stop it, passengers will have more confidence.”

However, aviation analyst Tunde Olaniyan cautioned that implementation would determine the success of the policy. “FAAN must go beyond statements and ensure continuous monitoring. Touting at airports is often perpetrated by syndicates, including insiders. Sustained enforcement and technology will be key,” he noted.

The zero-tolerance policy also aligns with international aviation standards under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which emphasises passenger protection, transparency, and safety. Kuku assured that FAAN remains committed to meeting global best practices.

“Airports represent the first impression visitors have of any country. We cannot allow misconduct or extortion to define our aviation industry. FAAN is determined to deliver safe, clean, and world-class airports,” she declared.

As the festive season approaches, FAAN reiterated that all airport users—including taxi drivers, concessionaires, and airline staff—must operate within approved regulations or risk being banned from airport premises. The Authority advised passengers to always transact only with authorised personnel and to report any illegal activity through official channels.

With this renewed drive, FAAN hopes to achieve a lasting culture of discipline, professionalism, and customer satisfaction across all airports in Nigeria. The agency said it will continue to partner with law enforcement and private sector stakeholders to ensure that the policy is not only implemented but sustained over the long term.