As the festive season travel rush hits Nigeria’s airports, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has made a strong appeal for collaboration among aviation stakeholders to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for passengers.
FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs & Consumer Protection, Mr. Henry Agbebire, emphasised the critical role airports play as the nation’s first impression, particularly during the influx of travellers characteristic of the “Detty December” period.
Agbebire specifically highlighted the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) in Abuja as key gateways that require exceptional service delivery. In line with President Bola Tinubu’s expectations and those of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, FAAN urged stakeholders to work together to provide a smooth experience for travellers.
The stakeholders include the Nigeria Customs Service, Immigration, Port Health, Quarantine, Department of State Services (DSS), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Aviation Security, ground handlers, and other service providers. FAAN directed its officers and personnel to avoid undue harassment or intimidation of passengers, soliciting or demanding money, causing unnecessary delays, and profiling or obstruction. Instead, they should conduct their duties with courtesy, professionalism, and efficiency.
Agbebire emphasised that this period presents an opportunity to demonstrate the culture of excellence Nigeria seeks to entrench, stating, “our returning citizens and visitors deserve warmth, order, and reassurance from arrival to exit”. He called for transforming airports into “havens of joy, safety, and efficiency” this festive period and expressed FAAN’s reliance on the cooperation of all partners to achieve this goal.
By working together, Agbebire concluded, “Together, let us make Nigeria proud.” With a significant increase in passenger traffic expected, FAAN’s appeal aims to ensure a pleasant and stress-free travel experience for all.