FAAN plans upgrade of international airports security with new scanners
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has moved to update and expand security equipment at international airports to allow for thorough passenger screening in accordance with global Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPS) in aviation.Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of FAAN, disclosed this on Thursday in Lagos during a strategic meeting with executives and members of the Nigerian Airline Operators Association.
The organization has begun implementing plans to replace all single-view scanners at the country's international airports with standard double-view ones.
In her presentation to airline operators titled 'Strategic Drive for Enhanced Airport & Aviation Security in Nigeria,' Kuku explained that the replacement of single-view scanners with standard double-view scanners was part of FAAN's equipment and technology modernization efforts.
She added that this also facilitates and improves security at all airports, reduces wait times for screening during peak times, improves passenger experience, benefits airlines, and reduces turnaround times for all operators.
Airport scanners are essential components of airport security systems, helping to detect potential threats and ensure the safety of passengers and crew. These machines use a variety of technologies to scan passengers' and their belongings for prohibited substances.
Nigeria has five international airports: Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos; Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja; Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), Port Harcourt International Airport (PHIA), Omagwa; and Akanu Ibiam International Airport (AIIA), Enugu.
Furthermore, Kuku stated that management had recently completed an evaluation of the necessary cabin, luggage, and cargo scanners required at all of the country's airports.
She noted that FAAN management was also increasing the number of Liquid Explosive Detector Equipment (LEDE) in the country's airports.
She added, "We are also upgrading the x-ray scanners to explosive detection system-enabled models. Also, we are automating the On-Duty-Card (ODC) application, processing, and issuance.
"In addition, plans are being developed for hybrid scanners capable of detecting explosives, narcotics, and currency. This is to expedite the implementation of automated joint searches involving Aviation Security (AVSEC), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS)."
However, the FAAN president identified several threats to the industry's overall growth, including inadequate infrastructure, safety concerns, unstable finances, high operating costs, insecurity, terrorism and sabotage, theft and vandalism of installations, and an increase in civil unrest.
"The directorate has continued to strive towards meeting its statutory responsibilities regarding security at our airports and will continue to improve its performance aimed at ensuring better efficiency in delivery on its mandate," according to her.
The airline operators were pleased with the significant improvements implemented by the new FAAN management to further protect airports and improve passenger flow at airports.
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