Enhancing Security And Operations At Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport

Discover the pressing security concerns at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) and the urgent need for FAAN to address these issues to maintain aviation safety and standards.

Addressing Security Gaps at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport

Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), located in Kano, Nigeria, stands as the nation’s oldest airport, established in 1936. As the primary aerodrome serving northern Nigeria, MAKIA is one of the few airports in the country with two operational runways. In comparison, even the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, Nigeria’s second-busiest airport, operates with a single runway.

Despite its historic significance, recent statistics from the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) show that MAKIA handled only 4% of Nigeria’s air traffic in 2023. The breakdown includes 8,706 domestic movements and 2,427 international flights, highlighting a significant gap in traffic compared to other major airports.

Recurring Security Challenges at Kano Airport

MAKIA has gained a troubling reputation for insider threats, drug trafficking, and security breaches. One infamous case occurred in 2019 when Zainab Aliyu, a Nigerian student, was detained in Saudi Arabia after Tramadol was planted in her luggage at the airport. While the Federal Government intervened and uncovered the culprits, the findings of the investigation were never publicly disclosed.

Furthermore, MAKIA remains a hotspot for drug peddling. Reports indicate frequent arrests of drug couriers by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). This persistent issue undermines the airport’s credibility and raises questions about its internal security protocols.

Recent Security Breaches

One alarming incident involved a “strange man” discovered inside a Rano Airlines aircraft parked overnight at the apron. Despite multiple security layers, including Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel and airline security, the suspect managed to breach the restricted area. This breach delayed the Lagos-bound flight by over two hours.

Such incidents are not isolated, as MAKIA is also prone to frequent bird strikes, impacting both local and international airlines. The lack of stringent measures to mitigate these risks highlights significant operational weaknesses.

Operational and Security Standards

Insiders have raised concerns about the lack of professionalism among AVSEC officials and other security personnel at MAKIA. Reports suggest lapses such as inadequate scanner operations, failure to verify passengers’ identification, and disorganized boarding processes.

An industry expert warned that Kano Airport’s porous security could hinder Nigeria’s performance in the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) security audits. These breaches are routinely reported to international aviation authorities, potentially tarnishing Nigeria’s aviation reputation.

Call to Action for FAAN

For Nigeria to maintain its recent advancements in the aviation sector, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) must address the security lapses at MAKIA. Strengthening AVSEC training, implementing stricter access control measures, and increasing vigilance are essential steps to ensure the safety of passengers and uphold international standards.

Kano Airport’s historical significance and strategic position in northern Nigeria make it a vital asset. However, without urgent intervention, its security vulnerabilities could overshadow its potential, jeopardizing passenger safety and the country’s aviation growth.