The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has addressed a viral video showing a confrontation between a FAAN staff member and an individual at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) over cargo charges. FAAN has clarified that the person involved was not a passenger but a cargo agent conducting unauthorized activities at the airport. The individual refused to pay the required cargo fees, resulting in a dispute.
Contrary to claims made in the video, FAAN emphasized that no bribe was requested, and the FAAN personnel involved were only enforcing proper payment procedures. Additionally, there was no physical harassment or inappropriate behavior by FAAN staff during the incident. FAAN stated that the video was an attempt at blackmail.
The agency highlighted its cargo policies, which mandate that all cargo operations be conducted in designated areas with proper personnel and vehicles, and that required levies must be paid. These policies are in place to ensure safety, protect airport equipment, and adhere to international best practices.
FAAN also noted that non-compliance with these policies incurs a ₦5,000 fine for offenses like failure to use designated terminals or causing damage to airport equipment such as carousels due to improper cargo handling.
FAAN reaffirmed its commitment to upholding its policies and urged the public and cargo operators to follow proper procedures to avoid such incidents in the future.
