In a bold move to improve efficiency and curb extortion at Nigerian airports, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has launched a sweeping reform aimed at modernising security operations. The initiative involves the replacement of outdated, manual luggage inspections with advanced scanning technology at the nation’s busiest airport terminals.
The effort is part of FAAN’s broader goal to streamline airport processes, eliminate passenger harassment, and bring Nigerian airport operations in line with global aviation standards. The transition from human-led checks to automated systems is already underway at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport, where the first batch of new security equipment has been installed.
Ending the Era of Manual Checks and Unofficial Demands
For years, travellers using Nigerian airports have raised concerns about frequent interruptions, long queues, and invasive physical luggage checks—particularly at customs checkpoints. These inspections often involve opening suitcases and manually searching through items, a process widely criticised for being both time-consuming and vulnerable to corruption.
Many passengers have described this aspect of airport travel as a breeding ground for unofficial financial requests, with officers allegedly soliciting bribes in exchange for faster clearance. Industry insiders have also voiced frustration over the duplication of roles by multiple agencies operating at the terminals, a situation that has long called for reform.
The issue recently reached a boiling point when a dispute erupted between customs officers and airport security personnel over their respective duties. The incident, which took place at the Lagos International Airport, nearly led to a nationwide strike by aviation workers, originally scheduled for March 31, 2025.
In response to the outcry, FAAN has fast-tracked the implementation of technology-driven screening systems to replace the outdated method of manually checking luggage.
Introduction of Advanced Screening Systems
As part of the technological overhaul, FAAN has introduced a suite of cutting-edge machines designed to scan luggage and detect threats without the need for physical intervention. These include six units of the Orion 927DX, along with high-capacity full-body scanners and sophisticated detection devices known as itemisers.
These machines use advanced imaging techniques to display scanned content in high resolution and multiple color formats, allowing for more accurate identification of prohibited items. The equipment is capable of spotting a wide array of threats—including explosives, weapons, and illegal substances—in real time, significantly improving overall airport safety.
According to FAAN’s Director of Aviation Security, Igbafe Afegbai, the new system will completely eliminate the need for customs tables where passengers’ bags were previously searched manually. He confirmed that these tables will be removed within a week, paving the way for a fully digital, contactless screening process.
Transparent Inspections with Zero Physical Contact
The overhaul also includes the creation of secure, camera-monitored zones where physical inspections will only occur if a machine flags an item as suspicious. These zones will serve as designated examination rooms, fully equipped with CCTV to ensure transparency and prevent potential abuse of passengers.
“If a scanner detects anything unusual in a bag, the relevant agency—such as the Customs Service, Drug Enforcement, or Quarantine Authority—will be notified immediately,” Afegbai explained. “The passenger will then be escorted to a secure area for further inspection, away from the public eye and under camera supervision.”
The redesigned system also allows each agency stationed at the airport to operate independently using their own dedicated screens. This removes the need for multiple agents to gather around luggage at a single point, thus eliminating overlap and confusion.
Multi-Agency Access for Greater Coordination
FAAN’s upgrade plan includes providing six separate monitor units—one for each of the regulatory and enforcement bodies operating within the terminal. These include the Nigeria Customs Service, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Department of State Services (DSS), Immigration, Quarantine, and Port Health.
Each agency will now be able to monitor the scanned images of luggage independently, ensuring that responsibilities are clearly delineated and reducing the risk of operational conflict.
Afegbai added that training will be provided for officers from each of these agencies to ensure they can effectively operate the new machines. “Previously, our old machines could not always detect certain contraband items, particularly narcotics. With this latest technology, our detection accuracy has significantly improved,” he said.
Upgrading Airport ICT Capabilities
Further highlighting the innovation, Chima Oge, head of the airport’s ICT department, explained that the Orion 927DX is not only efficient but also highly intelligent. It is equipped with functionality that distinguishes organic materials with a high level of accuracy, which is particularly useful for identifying drugs and other contraband.
The scanner operates in both range mode and interactive mode. In range mode, it automatically highlights suspicious areas based on predefined threat criteria. In interactive mode, the operator can manually explore sections of the scanned image, enhancing accuracy and reducing false positives.
“These features allow for quick decision-making and faster passenger processing,” Oge said. “We expect a significant reduction in congestion at screening points as a result of this upgrade.”
Aligning with International Best Practices
With these reforms, Nigeria is moving toward compliance with the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Modern airports around the world already rely on automated systems to improve security and passenger convenience, and FAAN’s new direction places Nigeria firmly on this path.
The technology upgrade is expected to raise the confidence of both local and international travellers while also improving the country’s standing in global aviation safety rankings.
A Smoother Journey for Travellers
Passengers can expect a vastly improved airport experience in the coming months. The removal of redundant checkpoints, coupled with faster and more reliable security processes, is likely to reduce travel-related stress significantly.
The full rollout of this system will begin at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, with plans to extend the same technology to airports in Abuja, Port Harcourt, and other major cities.
By embracing a contactless, technology-first approach to airport security, FAAN is not only reducing inefficiencies but also creating a system that respects travellers’ time and dignity.
Looking Ahead
This modernisation drive represents a turning point for Nigeria’s aviation sector. Once completed, the new system will usher in a new era of seamless, transparent, and secure airport operations. It will also reinforce Nigeria’s position as a regional hub for air travel in West Africa.
Travellers, airline operators, and security personnel alike are expected to benefit from this initiative, which signals a strong commitment by FAAN to deliver a world-class aviation experience.
