FG raises alarm over plots to attack major airports

THERE is a plot by some elements to attack major airports in the country, the Federal Government has revealed.

The Ministry of Aviation said it has brought the development to attention of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

In a memo dated April 9, 2021, the FAAN urged airport chiefs to put their workers on the alert, so they could report suspicious elements to the authorities.

The memo listed the Airports on the list to include those in Kaduna, Maiduguri, Sokoto, Kano, Abuja, and Lagos.

In the memo, FAAN’s Deputy General Manager of Administration and Logistics, S.M. Mamman, said, “I am directed to convey an alert from the Ministry of Aviation regarding security threats by criminal elements against Airports in Nigeria and to request for the immediate enumeration of necessary countermeasures for the protection of Airports/facilities under your purview.”

“Specifically, the Airports top on the list for which criminals are considering carrying out attacks include those in Kaduna, Maiduguri, Sokoto, Kano, Abuja, and Lagos amongst others. However, all airports are hereby alerted and requested to operate at a heightened threat level.

“The airport chiefs have been directed to “submit a list of existing and additional countermeasures to address the threats, along with their cost implications where applicable.

“Also, they are expected to urgently convene an emergency meeting of airport security committees “to review the status of airport security, jointly recommend appropriate measures and share responsibility for effective implementation”.