N3 Billion Sanctioned by FG for Advanced Airport Screening Technology 

In a bid to modernize and enhance security protocols, the Federal Executive Council, led by President Bola Tinubu, approved a significant investment of N3.23 billion for the deployment of advanced airport screening technology at key international airports across Nigeria. 

This decision, announced by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, aims to address the long-standing challenges of delays and stringent security checks that have marred the airport experience for travelers.

What the airport screening entails

The new airport screening systems, designed to detect explosives and narcotics, will be installed at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, Mallam Aminu Kano Airport in Kano, Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, and the Port Harcourt Airport in Rivers State. These cutting-edge systems will feature a dual-view mechanism, ensuring a thorough yet swift examination of baggage and cargo.

The implementation of these advanced airport screening technologies is a response to public outcry over the invasive and time-consuming manual searches that have become a norm at these airports. 

Passengers have often complained about the inconvenience and discomfort caused by the multiple checks conducted by different security agencies, including NDLEA, Immigration, Customs, and EFCC, which require them to open their bags for physical inspection.

How the initiative will affect travelers

Keyamo emphasized that this initiative is not just about enhancing security but also about respecting the dignity of travelers and providing a more pleasant and efficient airport experience. The technology is akin to the TSA systems used in the United States, where bags are screened through machines capable of detecting any hazardous or prohibited items, thereby eliminating the need for manual searches.

Apart from this significant development in airport operations, the Council also approved a bilateral air service agreement with the Republic of Guyana, a pact that had been in the works since 2014. This agreement, ratified without the need for legislation, is expected to facilitate direct flights between Guyana and Nigeria, strengthening ties between the two nations.

In a related matter, the Council, under the guidance of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, also approved a draft response to the United Nations Human Rights Universal Periodic Review. This response addresses various inquiries regarding alleged human rights violations in Nigeria, including the recruitment of children into the army and the abuse of women’s rights.