The security operation that caused concern at Asaba International Airport on September 10 was a planned simulation conducted by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Airport Police Command has said.
The Command, in a statement issued by its Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Mohammed Adeola, dismissed reports that the airport had come under a terrorist attack or security breach, describing such claims circulating on social media and other platforms as false.
According to the police, the exercise was designed to assess the preparedness of security and emergency-response agencies and strengthen their ability to respond to potential threats at the airport.
Security personnel and other relevant stakeholders were deployed during the exercise to recreate a simulated security incident within the airport environment. The exercise enabled participating agencies to test their response mechanisms, communication channels, command and control structures and level of inter-agency coordination.
The Command said the exercise was a controlled and authorised operation carried out as part of broader efforts to improve security preparedness and protect critical infrastructure.
It urged travellers, airport users and members of the public not to mistake the security activities witnessed during the exercise for an actual attack or invasion of the airport.
The police also advised the public to disregard unverified reports capable of causing fear and panic, urging travellers and other stakeholders to rely on information released by authorised government and security agencies.
The Command assured passengers and airport users that the security situation at Asaba International Airport remained under control, adding that relevant security agencies continued to maintain vigilance and were committed to protecting passengers, airport personnel, facilities and other airport users.
It said exercises of this nature were important for identifying gaps in existing response arrangements and improving coordination among agencies responsible for airport security and emergency management.
