FAAN Urges Enhanced Cooperation and Professionalism Amid Festive Airport Surge

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has called for strengthened collaboration and a renewed commitment to professionalism among all aviation service providers, as the country’s major airports experience a significant surge in passenger traffic during the Christmas and New Year travel period.

In a statement issued on Monday, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Henry Agbebire, emphasized that airports serve as critical national gateways, especially during the festive season when thousands of diaspora Nigerians and international visitors arrive.

Agbebire highlighted that the seasonal increase in passenger volume places substantial operational pressure on airport infrastructure and personnel, making seamless inter-agency cooperation essential. He specifically pointed to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja, as key hubs requiring exceptional vigilance and service delivery.

The appeal aligns with the directives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, who have prioritized passenger experience and a culture of excellence within the sector.

FAAN urged all agencies operating within the airport ecosystem—including the Nigeria Customs Service, Immigration, Port Health, the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Aviation Security (AVSEC), and ground handling companies—to work in unity to ensure smooth operations.

The Authority issued firm instructions to all personnel, prohibiting any form of passenger harassment, intimidation, solicitation, undue delays, profiling, or obstruction. Officers were directed to perform their duties with courtesy, efficiency, and professionalism.

“This is a season to showcase the standards of service and hospitality Nigeria seeks to uphold,” Agbebire stated. “From arrival to departure, our citizens and guests deserve an atmosphere of order, warmth, and reassurance.”

He stressed that ensuring a safe, efficient, and welcoming airport environment is a collective responsibility, essential for reflecting national pride and operational excellence during the festivities.

The statement comes amid markedly higher passenger numbers across Nigerian airports, driven by holiday travel, returning diaspora, and an influx of international visitors.