KEY POINT
- Special marshals will conduct unscheduled airport inspections to expose corruption at Nigeria’s airports.
- The initiative aims to enhance transparency and curb misconduct in the aviation sector.
- Collaboration with security agencies is crucial to addressing harassment and extortion at airports.
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has announced a series of initiatives aimed at eradicating corruption within the nation’s airports. Central to this effort is the deployment of special marshals tasked with conducting unscheduled inspections to monitor staff conduct and overall airport conditions. These marshals, comprising individuals from the media, non-governmental organizations, and representatives of state governors, will report directly to the minister, ensuring an additional layer of transparency and accountability.
Keyamo emphasized the importance of publicly addressing corruption, stating, “In issues of corruption, we must learn to name and shame openly.” He underscored the necessity of transparency in tackling misconduct, particularly when such acts are perpetrated against Nigerian travelers.
In addition to deploying special marshals, the ministry is collaborating with security agencies to address harassment and extortion at airports. Keyamo revealed that the National Security Adviser has procured 1,000 body cameras for security operatives to monitor their activities and curb misconduct. Training for the use of these cameras is nearing completion, with a command center established to oversee the footage. Keyamo plans monthly surprise airport inspections to improve service quality.
Keyamo plans monthly surprise airport inspections to improve service quality
According to arise news, the minister also plans to lead unscheduled monthly inspections of airports nationwide, accompanied by senior officials and members of the National Assembly’s aviation committees. These visits aim to assess operational activities, engage with airport staff, and reinforce the importance of professionalism and courteous service to the public.
Through these comprehensive measures, Keyamo is committed to fostering a culture of transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s aviation sector, ensuring that airports operate with integrity and serve the best interests of the traveling public.
