Yemisi Izuora
To further improve security at the nations airports, the federal government is set to install Close Circuit (CCV) Cameras at many of the international airports, particularly at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos.
The CCTV cameras are to be installed at the airfield and holding area near the threshold where aircraft take-off.
There are also indications that the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) may overhaul the entire security architecture of virtually all the airports to guarantee security.
Aviation security consultant and former Commandant, Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, Group. Capt. John Ojikutu (Rtd) described it as a welcome development to reposition the airports, security wise.
He identified the threat to be along the holding point, parking bay and landing area.
“After installing the CCTV cameras, you must have an intervention force that will respond immediately; otherwise it will just be a waste. They must have armed men. The immediate measure should be done now. This is what should have been done many years ago. They must be a good follow-me vehicle.. It is a welcome idea. If you detect something at the holding bay you must have intervention force not too far away from the area”.
The security lapses at the country that may have found expression at the nation’s airports, particularly at the Murtala Muhammed Airports, Lagos which had made bandits to allegedly rob airlines taxiing to their final stops.
Penultimate week, a private jet carrying two top Nigerian musical artists, Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun aka “Wizkid” and Tiwa Savage from Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State was allegedly attacked and robbed while taxiing on Murtala Muhammed airport’s runway 18L.