The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on Tuesday said it had put the necessary operational and security measures in place at all airports to ensure hitch-free operations during the Yuletide.
FAAN gave the assurance in a statement signed by its General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Mrs Herrienta Yakubu, in Lagos.
She said all airport managers had been charged to employ measures to ensure that only people who meet requirements have access to all restricted areas at the landside, terminals and airside.
According to her, this is apart from the statutory security and safety measures already in place at the airports.
“Furthermore, the Bomb Detection Unit of the Nigerian Police Force have also been charged to be more alert at the airports, to complement the effort of Aviation Security personnel at the security screening points.
“To reiterate her commitment to safety of lives and properties, the Federal Government, through the Nigerian Air Force, recently conducted Counter Terrorism Simulation live demonstration at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos,’’ she said.
The spokesperson said that passengers’ facilitation had also been enhanced by the upgrade of power installations, installation of modern and bigger conveyor belts and metal walk-through detectors, servicing of lifts and escalators.
She said stringent measures were being taken to eradicate the menace of touts and other unwholesome activities around the terminals.
“The expansion and modernisation of our airport terminals now provide better ambience and more space for restaurants at the terminals, as well as newly opened duty free shops.
“These provide duty-free shopping experience and help passengers relax comfortably while waiting for their flights,’’ she said.
While wishing passengers a safe and enjoyable Yuletide, she advised them to make early arrangements for their travels and leave home early on their travel dates in order to complete boarding facilities in good time. (NAN)