The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced a significant upgrade in airport security by phasing out manual luggage checks at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.
This transition to advanced screening technology follows the installation of the state-of-the-art Rapiscan Orion 928DX scanners, set to enhance both security and passenger experience for international flights.
The new system, capable of detecting narcotics, explosives, undeclared currency, and other prohibited items, has already been implemented at key checkpoints. “Once the system identifies a suspicious item, it gives us an exact image and location. We can then proceed with a secondary search if necessary,” explained Juliet Chima-Ogechukwu, FAAN’s Head of ICT.
The upgraded scanners combine artificial intelligence and real-time threat detection, making them one of the most advanced systems in global aviation. “Unlike older systems, the Orion 928DX can handle simultaneous scans, detecting both explosives and narcotics in real time,” said Chima-Ogechukwu.
The system’s dual-mode feature can also detect organic substances like agricultural products, which were often hidden in baggage.
FAAN is also strengthening its collaboration with various security agencies, including Nigeria Immigration, Customs, and NDLEA, who will have real-time access to flagged visuals via new surveillance monitors.
Albert Igbafe Afegbai, FAAN’s Director of Aviation Security Services, highlighted further developments, including the ongoing trial of e-gates, which streamline the check-in process by eliminating physical contact.
“With the e-gate system, passengers only need to scan their boarding passes. This significantly reduces unauthorized access and interference,” Afegbai stated.
As part of its broader efforts, FAAN is modernizing airports across Nigeria, including Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, with plans for more advanced screening equipment and improved security coordination.