In response to numerous complaints from concerned citizens, Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation, has acknowledged the issue of begging and extortion at Nigerian international airports.
Keyamo took to social media to address the matter, emphasizing that these unscrupulous activities tarnish the country’s image.
Keyamo stated, “I have received several complaints about the menace of begging and extortion at our International airports by a few unscrupulous persons who give all of us a bad image. My phones are beeping every minute with messages about this from well-meaning Nigerians.”
Clarifying the jurisdictional boundaries, Keyamo noted that many of the agencies involved in the malpractices do not fall under the direct control of the Aviation Ministry, despite being stationed at the airports.
However, he assured the public that he has been actively collaborating with other relevant Ministers, government bodies, and agencies to address the issue.
Keyamo highlighted that efforts are being coordinated by the National Security Adviser, who recently convened a meeting to tackle the problem.
He promised that practical steps to curb this menace will be unveiled soon, aiming to restore the integrity and reputation of Nigeria’s airports.
“We are all working under the coordination of the National Security Adviser who called a meeting a few days ago on this issue and we shall soon unveil practical steps being taken to stem this ugly tide. We thank Nigerians for their eternal vigilance on this issue,” Keyamo concluded.
