Investigation: How Lagos Airport’s Security Checks Became a Racket

#1 · May 15, 2026, 8:49 am

A BusinessDay investigation has uncovered an organized extortion ring operating under the guise of “secondary screening” at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos. Despite the recent installation of AI-powered scanners meant to eliminate manual searches, passengers are still being subjected to rowdy and intrusive physical bag checks.

The report reveals that personnel from several government agencies have bypassed the automated systems to set up manual search tables. These tables have become “collection points” where travelers are intimidated into paying bribes to avoid delays or “fines” for imaginary contraband. The investigation captured footage of officials openly demanding “donations” in multiple currencies.

Aviation experts argue that this practice not only harasses travelers but also compromises national security. By focusing on extortion rather than actual threat detection, the official screening process is being rendered ineffective. The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has previously ordered the removal of these tables, but the investigation shows his directives are being ignored by ground-level operatives.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has promised a “drastic crackdown” in response to these findings. However, passengers remain skeptical, calling for the permanent removal of all non-automated screening points. The report highlights the deep-seated corruption that continues to plague Nigeria’s primary international gateway, deterring foreign investment and tourism.

https://businessday.ng/pro/article/how-lagos-airports-security-checks-became-its-biggest-racket/

#2 · May 16, 2026, 5:40 am

The AI scanners should be the final authority. If the machine says 'clear,' no human should have the right to open that bag unless there’s a specific, documented intelligence report. Anything else is just a 'collection point' for the boys.

#3 · May 16, 2026, 6:50 am

Aviation security is supposed to be invisible and efficient. In Lagos, it is loud, rowdy, and intrusive. By focusing on who has a bottle of honey or extra lace, they are missing the real threats. This racket is a massive security loophole disguised as a search.

#4 · May 16, 2026, 7:45 am

FAAN has been promising 'drastic crackdowns' since the 90s. We don't want promises; we want to see officials being handcuffed on the terminal floor. Until there is a real consequence, the table will always reappear ten minutes after the supervisor leaves the room.

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Investigation: How Lagos Airport’s Security Checks Became a Racket

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