By Dickson Omobola

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, has established a dedicated task force to tackle touts and extortionists across the country’s airports.

Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, said the Director of Special Duties at FAAN, Mr Henry Agbebire, has been appointed as the chairman of the task force.

Addressing newsmen in Lagos, Kuku expressed deep concern over the persistent harassment and extortion experienced by passengers at airports.

Declaring her intention to personally engage with all government agencies operating at the airports, she pledged to ensure compliance with the anti-touting and anti-extortion measures.

Stressing that the era of business as usual was over and highlighted the administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct, Kuku warned that strict disciplinary actions would be taken against anyone found engaging in illicit practices.

While announcing plans to establish magistrate courts at international airports to expedite the legal process for prosecuting offenders, she said a task force had been mandated to enforce discipline among airport staff and maintain a culture of professionalism.

She said: “Dedicated phone lines and QR codes will be set up to provide passengers with a means of providing feedback on their airport experience. All airport personnel must prominently display their on-duty cards and name tags for easy identification and accountability. FAAN is committed to delivering exceptional service and ensuring a safe and secure environment for all passengers and airport users.”