Nigeria’s airports, once considered gateways to the nation’s vibrant culture and economy, are increasingly becoming hotspots for begging and extortion. This situation has prompted a wave of public outrage and raised serious questions about the government’s response to the escalating problem.
Travelers at major airports like Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja have reported frequent encounters with beggars and individuals demanding bribes. These experiences have not only marred the travel experience but also tarnished Nigeria’s international reputation.
Jane Adeola, a frequent flyer, shared her frustrations after a recent trip. “Every time I travel, I’m approached by people asking for money or offering ‘help’ for a fee. It’s embarrassing and makes the whole process stressful. The authorities need to address this,” she said.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has acknowledged the issue but has been criticized for its seemingly inadequate measures to combat it. In a recent statement, FAAN announced that steps are being taken to increase security and reduce the incidence of begging and extortion. However, many believe these measures are insufficient and lack urgency.
Aviation analyst Emmanuel Okeke pointed out the gaps in the current approach. “While FAAN has recognized the problem, the response has been largely reactive rather than proactive. We need a comprehensive strategy that includes better surveillance, stricter enforcement of regulations, and more support for vulnerable individuals who resort to begging,” he explained.
The problem of begging and extortion at airports is multifaceted. Economic hardship and unemployment have driven many to seek money from travelers, while corrupt practices among some airport staff have exacerbated the issue. Reports of officials soliciting bribes to expedite services or overlook baggage violations are rampant.
FAAN’s recent efforts include the deployment of more security personnel and the installation of surveillance cameras. Despite these measures, the persistence of the problem suggests that more robust actions are needed. Experts advocate for a zero-tolerance policy towards extortion and a thorough audit of airport staff to root out corrupt practices.
The Ministry of Aviation has also been called to take more decisive action. Senator Hadi Sirika, the Minister of Aviation, has faced mounting pressure to implement stricter policies and ensure that existing regulations are enforced effectively. Public confidence in the government’s ability to manage the airports is waning, and there are calls for greater transparency and accountability.
Civil society groups and consumer rights advocates have joined the chorus of voices demanding change. The Consumer Protection Council (CPC) has urged travelers to report any incidents of extortion or harassment and has called on FAAN to establish a clear and accessible complaints process. The CPC’s Director-General, Babatunde Irukera, emphasized the need for public cooperation. “We can only address this issue if travelers feel safe to report these incidents. There must be a reliable system in place to handle complaints and ensure that offenders are held accountable,” he stated.
The economic implications of the situation are also significant. Tourism and international business travel are vital to Nigeria’s economy. Persistent reports of begging and extortion could deter potential visitors and investors, leading to economic losses.
While the challenges are considerable, there are opportunities for improvement. Collaboration between the government, private sector, and international partners could yield effective solutions. Enhanced training for airport staff on ethical practices, coupled with better support systems for individuals in economic distress, could address the root causes of the problem.
In the meantime, travelers are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious or inappropriate behavior. The goal is to restore Nigeria’s airports to their rightful status as safe and welcoming gateways.
There is hope that with concerted efforts and a commitment to transparency and integrity, the issue of begging and extortion at Nigeria’s airports can be eradicated. This will not only improve the travel experience but also reinforce Nigeria’s image as a hospitable and orderly nation
Source: tribuneonlineng.com
