At a workshop on Ebola Virus Disease Preparedness and Preventive Measures held on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at Murtala Muhammed International Airport Lagos, relevant health authorities and stakeholders reviewed current preparedness strategies, response mechanisms, and containment procedures aimed at safeguarding public health and preventing any possible outbreak in the country.

Speaking during the workshop, representatives of health and border control agencies emphasized that surveillance activities have been intensified, particularly at international airports, with special attention placed on passengers arriving from high-risk countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda, and neighboring regions affected by the disease.

The Port Health Services (PHS) disclosed that advanced screening and monitoring measures are currently in operation across points of entry.

These include active temperature screening, health monitoring protocols, and the deployment of QR code scanners to facilitate efficient passenger health declaration and follow-up procedures.

Henry Agbebire, director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at FAAN confirmed stakeholders at the workshop stressed the importance of collaboration among government agencies, aviation authorities, health institutions, and security agencies in ensuring rapid detection, reporting, and response to any suspected case of Ebola Virus Disease.

The Port Health Services (PHS) disclosed further that surveillance activities have been intensified at international airports, particularly for passengers arriving from high-risk countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda, and neighboring countries within affected regions.

As part of efforts to enhance passenger monitoring and contact tracing procedures, QR code scanners have been deployed at screening points to enable travelers complete required health information electronically. Temperature screening is also being conducted actively at airports to facilitate early detection of suspected cases.

Medical experts at the workshop highlighted common symptoms associated with Ebola Virus Disease, including fever, unexplained bleeding, weight loss, and related health complications.

They explained that while no specific cure was identified during the session, early detection and supportive medical care remain essential in managing suspected cases.

Participants also stressed the importance of preventive measures such as regular hand washing, proper hygiene, avoidance of unnecessary physical contact, strengthened surveillance systems, and prompt identification and isolation of suspected cases.

Airline operators were further advised to avoid transporting individuals suspected of showing symptoms associated with Ebola Virus Disease in order to minimize the risk of cross-border transmission.

The workshop concluded with a renewed call for vigilance, sustained public awareness, and continuous cooperation among all aviation and health stakeholders to safeguard public health and ensure safe air travel across the country.

The directive comes amid widespread disruption, long queues and gridlock at airport access points, which left travellers frustrated and, in some cases, missing flights.

The policy, branded “Operation Go Cashless”, was introduced earlier this week and required motorists and airport users to pay electronically at toll gates, car parks and other revenue collection points nationwide.

While the move was designed to improve efficiency, reduce revenue leakages and align with broader digital payment reforms, its rapid implementation exposed significant operational challenges, including limited public awareness, card shortages and delays in electronic payment processing, that led to severe congestion at entry and exit points, particularly in Lagos and Abuja.

At the end of a Federal Executive Council meeting, Transportation Minister Festus Keyamo, speaking on behalf of the government, said the President was “concerned about the welfare of Nigerians” and directed that the system be taken back to the drawing board for review and improvement.

He emphasised that the suspension does not signal an outright rejection of cashless transactions, but rather an acknowledgment that the rollout needs to be better planned and executed so as not to inconvenience the travelling public.

Keyamo indicated that the administration may involve private sector partners to help design a more efficient system, suggesting a hybrid approach where those with electronic payment tools can use them, while others may temporarily continue to pay in cash until a seamless digital solution is ready.

The decision stresses the challenge of implementing large-scale digital reforms in high-traffic environments where infrastructure, user readiness, and clear communication are critical for success.

It also highlights the government’s responsiveness to public feedback, even as it continues to pursue broader cashless initiatives across federal revenue systems.

Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, the managing director/chief executive of FAAN, gave the confirmation during a consultative meeting with the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE).

The move aligns with a Federal Government mandate to modernize public finance management and eliminate leakages in revenue collection.

Federal Mandate Drives Reform

The transition is rooted in a Treasury Circular dated November 24, 2025, issued by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation.

The directive, signed by Shamseldeen Ogunjimi, mandated all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to cease physical cash collections following approval from the Federal Executive Council.

Mrs. Kuku emphasized that the policy is a non-negotiable step toward global best practices in aviation management.

“There is no going back on this decision,” the MD/CE stated. “The cashless initiative aligns FAAN with national financial management reforms while positioning Nigeria’s airports for greater operational integrity and stronger revenue assurance.”

Addressing the Paystack Third-Party Concerns

During the engagement, the MD/CE addressed specific concerns regarding the use of Paystack as a payment partner.

She clarified that the platform functions strictly as a gateway and does not hold government funds.

Payment Flow: All transactions are processed via Point of Sale (POS) terminals.

Direct Remittance: Funds move directly from the terminal into designated Federal Government accounts, not into third-party accounts.

Transparency: The system is designed to provide full transaction traceability and reduce human-led revenue leakages.

Stakeholder Alignment

The meeting with NUATE served to douse tensions and provide clarity on the operational framework of the new system.

According to FAAN, the union expressed satisfaction with the practical implementation strategy and the measures put in place to ensure a seamless transition by the end-of-month deadline.

The authority maintains that the reform will lead to:

• Faster service delivery at airport touchpoints.
• Enhanced accountability and public confidence in airport operations.
• Inclusive consultation with partners, concessionaires, and service providers.

This move marks a significant milestone in the modernization of Nigeria’s aviation value chain. By eliminating cash, FAAN is betting on digital infrastructure to boost its bottom line and satisfy the federal government’s drive for transparency in the Orange Economy and transportation sectors.

As the February 28 deadline approaches, passengers and vendors at Nigerian airports must prepare for a fully digital payment environment, as FAAN pivots toward a more audited and efficient revenue model.

Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, FAAN’s managing director/chief executive officer, made the remarks while congratulating the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) for their tireless efforts that culminated in this achievement.

“I am profoundly proud and elated at this remarkable achievement,” Mrs. Kuku said in an official statement. “This success serves as further evidence of our nation’s capacity to achieve great things when we work together with a common purpose.”

She extended special commendations to Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, the chief executive officer of the NFIU, for her leadership and coordination of the agencies involved in ensuring Nigeria met FATF’s global compliance standards.

Mrs. Kuku explained that the development carries far-reaching economic and diplomatic benefits for Nigeria.

“Our removal from the FATF Grey List means that the country is no longer under enhanced international scrutiny for weaknesses in its Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CFT) systems. It restores global confidence in our financial systems, eases international trade, and enhances Nigeria’s attractiveness to foreign investors.”

Highlighting FAAN’s role in achieving this milestone, she added,

“I am proud that FAAN played a significant and substantive role in addressing the strategic deficiencies identified by the FATF. This accomplishment reinforces our ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability.”

Mrs. Kuku further urged global and local investors to consider Nigeria a prime investment destination, assuring them of a secure, transparent, and rewarding business environment that guarantees sustainable returns.

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo confirmed the development on Wednesday through his official X account, revealing that the decision came after extensive consultations with stakeholders, public appeals, and expressions of remorse from both parties.

Emmanson, who had been held at Kirikiri Prison since her arrest on 10 August 2025, will be released this week following Ibom Air’s withdrawal of its criminal complaint. 

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has also agreed to remove the lifetime ban it placed on her. According to Keyamo, “When the police took her statement in the presence of her lawyer, she exhibited great remorse for her conduct.”

Battle for the Boarding Pass: Air Peace vs. Ibom Air on Key Nigerian Routes

The case of Comfort Emmanson began during a flight from Uyo to Lagos, when she reportedly refused to switch off her mobile phone during take-off, later escalating into an altercation with Ibom Air crew members. She was charged at the Ikeja Magistrates’ Court before being remanded.

In a separate incident, Wasiu Ayinde, known as KWAM 1, had faced a six-month no-fly sanction for allegedly attempting to board a ValueJet flight at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on 5 August 2025 with a flask suspected to contain alcohol. 

Reports say he refused to hand it over and proceeded to walk onto the tarmac, obstructing the aircraft’s movement.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had also suspended the licences of ValueJet’s Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba for taxiing while individuals were still on the runway. 

Under the new resolution, their licences will be reinstated after serving the same one-month suspension, followed by a professional reappraisal.

Industry bodies had earlier intervened, with the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) urging the NCAA to reconsider the pilots’ suspension, citing their clean professional records. 

However, some aviation law experts, including Professor Ismail Adua Mustapha, had warned that failing to prosecute KWAM 1 could harm Nigeria’s Grade A safety rating and breach obligations under international aviation rules, such as Annex 17 of the Chicago Convention.

Keyamo stressed that the decisions were made purely on compassionate grounds, stating they do not reflect a soft approach to aviation misconduct. He announced that KWAM 1 will now serve as an ambassador for airport security protocol, a role aimed at promoting awareness of proper conduct in aviation environments.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will work with him to drive the campaign. The decision has divided public opinion, some view it as a smart way to turn a high-profile infraction into an educational effort, while others question the optics of appointing someone recently sanctioned to champion discipline in aviation spaces.

As part of the measures, a nationwide aviation security retreat will be held to retrain personnel on handling disruptive passengers and de-escalating tense situations. Airlines will also undergo targeted sessions to improve staff professionalism and passenger relations.

Investment in Project Development

Speaking at the Biennial FAAN Joint Trade Unions Conference 2025, Mrs. Kuku urged aviation stakeholders to prioritize investment in project development, ensuring bankability and investor confidence.

She stressed the importance of market studies, feasibility assessments, and strong business cases to attract funding and drive sectoral expansion.

Cargo Operations & Investor Confidence

Mrs. Kuku highlighted the critical role of cargo operations in the future of aviation, noting that data-driven studies are essential to secure investor trust. While FAAN has established the Directorate of Cargo Development and Services, she emphasized the need for additional support and research to strengthen the sector.

Staff Welfare & Training Initiatives

Improved Working Conditions – FAAN has negotiated new conditions of service with union participation, set for submission to the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
Expanded Training Coverage – The agency is reassessing staff training and international travel budgets to ensure inclusivity.
Healthcare Access – FAAN is exploring partnerships to enhance medical facilities for employees.
Operational Upgrades – Plans are underway to procure operational vehicles and renovate staff quarters for better living conditions.

Airport Management & Performance Metrics

Mrs. Kuku emphasized the importance of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to ensure efficiency and accountability among airport managers and department heads.

Union Collaboration & Industry Strategy

Expressing gratitude to aviation unions NUATE, ATSSSAN, and ANAP, Mrs. Kuku encouraged delegates to use the conference as a strategic platform to drive meaningful change.

She advocated for fairness in safety practices (Just Culture) and equitable shifts toward sustainable aviation (Just Transition).

“Let us work together to protect jobs, enhance conditions of service, and strengthen the sector—not through conflict, but through cooperation,” she concluded.

According to information available to Techeconomy, FAAN said the closure was for emergency runway repairs.

Confirming the development in a statement on Saturday, Mrs Obiageli Orah, director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, said

“There is a sudden and significant rupture in the asphalt surface at a critical section of the runway. Hence, emergency repairs will be conducted on that portion of the runway from April 22nd to May 6th, 2025.

“In compliance with Nigerian civil aviation regulations, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has, therefore, closed the runway during this period.

“As part of FAAN’s commitment to passenger safety and the modernisation of airport facilities, the runway will not be open for landings or takeoffs during the rehabilitation period.

“FAAN appeals to all airport users and stakeholders for their understanding and cooperation during this time. All flights to this airport will be diverted to nearby airports.

“We sincerely apologise for the late and unexpected notice regarding this closure”, the statement reads.

The nomination was ratified on September 20, 2024, during the ACI Africa General Assembly held in South Africa, marking a significant milestone not only for Ms. Kuku, but for the entire African aviation community.

As a Regional Advisor, Olubunmi Kuku will play a pivotal role in shaping policies and strategies that impact airports across the continent.

Representing Africa on the ACI World Governing Board, which oversees 2, 100 airports and 814 members across 169 countries, Ms. Kuku will advocate for the unique challenges and opportunities faced by African airports.

Her extensive experience in Infrastructure finance and the aviation sector will be invaluable in addressing issues such as infrastructure development, safety regulations, and sustainable practices, ultimately enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of African airports on a global scale.

In recognition of her outstanding leadership and the remarkable performance of airports under her management, Olubunmi Kuku and her team from the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria were also honored with two prestigious safety awards during the ACI Africa Conference held in Johannesburg.

The accolades spotlighted the exceptional services and operational excellence of both the Port Harcourt International Airport and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.

These awards reflect her commitment to elevating Nigeria’s aviation standards and her vision for a thriving and resilient aviation industry across Africa.

“I am deeply honoured to be elected as the Regional Advisor for Africa on the ACI World Governing Board,” said Olubunmi Kuku. “This role is not just a personal achievement; it is a collective victory for our nation and the African aviation sector. Together, we can foster collaboration, innovation, and excellence, ensuring that our airports are not only safe and efficient but also drivers of economic growth and development.”

Ms. Kuku’s election comes at a critical time when the global aviation industry is navigating through unprecedented challenges and opportunities.

Her leadership will be instrumental in promoting the interests of African airports, advocating for investment in infrastructure, and pushing for policies that support sustainable aviation practices.

As she embarks on this exciting new chapter, Olubunmi Kuku remains committed to her mission of transforming Nigeria’s aviation landscape and uplifting the African aviation sector. With her at the helm, the future looks bright for airports across the continent.

Profile of Olubunmi Kuku

Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku was appointed as the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) in December 2023. With a wealth of experience in both the public and private sectors, she brings a unique blend of expertise to her role.

Prior to her appointment at FAAN, Mrs. Kuku held multiple leadership positions at leading Big 4 organizations, serving as a Partner at Ernst & Young and working with Deloitte Consulting.

Her exceptional leadership in the aviation sector includes serving as a technical advisor in the Federal Ministry of Aviation and as General Manager at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency.

Mrs. Kuku has been recognized for her commitment to advancing the industry and has held leadership roles on several boards and in multiple international organizations.

Her extensive background equips her to drive infrastructure development while ensuring safety and efficiency within the aviation sector.

With a passion for innovation and excellence, Mrs. Kuku is poised to make significant contributions to the growth of aviation in Nigeria and across Africa.

READ about Minister’s order to ground Arik Air fleet here.

A statement on Tuesday signed by Mrs Obiageli Orah, director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at FAAN, reads:

“This is to inform the public that the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is aware that Arik Airline has been grounded due to litigation issues between the airline and their creditors.

“The Authority has instructed all airport managers across the country to assist the affected passengers as Arik Airline works out plans to rebook and transfer passengers to other available flights.

“For further information, please contact Arik Airline on these lines: 0700003592745, 02012799999

“FAAN will continue to ensure safety, security, and comfort for all air travellers in Nigeria”.

Speaking with Techeconomy’s correspondent, Irafor highlighted that this initiative is a significant step towards curbing “begging and extortion” at airports across the country.

FAAN recently inaugurated an armed Aviation Security (AVSEC) Unit at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos as part of ongoing efforts to eliminate touting and other illegal activities around airports.

This development was announced by Nigeria’s Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, through a statement on his official social media account.

Keyamo stated, “As part of the steps we earlier promised Nigerians to take to curb the menace of touting and other illegal activities around our airports, earlier today, the Managing Director of FAAN, on my behalf, unveiled the armed Aviation Security (AVSEC) unit at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.”

The minister further explained that this initiative will be extended to other international airports across the country. The security officials of the AVSEC unit are authorized to arrest and prosecute touts and other suspected criminals within airport premises.

This initiative is distinct from ongoing inter-ministerial efforts aimed at tackling extortion, bribery, and begging by government agency officials stationed at the airports.

The inauguration of AVSEC follows Minister Keyamo’s announcement on Sunday about forthcoming measures to address “begging and extortion” at Nigerian airports.

A common issue at major airports involves government officials, such as Customs and Immigration officers, seeking bribes from passengers. Additionally, unauthorized traders often occupy airport premises, selling items from dried beef to padlocks.

These activities, along with allegations of unprofessional conduct by some government officials, have raised safety concerns. Many Nigerians believe that addressing these issues will create a safer airport environment for travelers.