The issue of extortion and begging at Nigeria’s airports, involving some agencies, has been acknowledged by Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development. Keyamo mentioned that these agencies operate independently of the ministry’s control. However, he assured that efforts are being made in collaboration with other relevant ministers to tackle this problem.
In response to numerous complaints raised by travelers regarding this misconduct, Keyamo expressed his concern over the negative image created by a few unscrupulous individuals. He emphasized that despite these agencies not falling under the jurisdiction of the aviation ministry, steps are being taken to find a resolution to this issue soon.
Keyamo acknowledged the collaboration with the National Security Adviser to address this matter effectively. Practical measures are expected to be announced shortly to curb this unwelcome trend at airports.
The prevalence of begging and extortion in airports has raised alarms within the Federal Government. On June 14, 2024, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria cautioned airport users against engaging in bribery and supporting extortionist activities. The agency warned of consequences for staff or government units found complicit in accepting illicit payments, mentioning the formation of a task force dedicated to eradicating such malpractices across airports nationwide.