Senator Urges Keyamo To Stop Airport Officials From Begging Travellers

A mild drama unfolded in Abuja on Monday when Senator Osita Izunaso of Imo West called on the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, to caution airport officials who beg travellers for money.

The lawmaker said the behaviour of some customs, immigration, and security personnel at Nigerian airports was damaging the country’s reputation.

Izunaso made the call during an event themed “Responsible Communication: The Voice of the World”, which was part of preparations for Nigeria’s hosting of the 2026 World Public Relations Forum. The forum is expected to attract participants from more than 120 countries.

Speaking at the event, the senator commended Keyamo for recent improvements at the airports but criticised the conduct of some uniformed officials who, he said, still engage in unprofessional practices such as soliciting money from travellers. He described such actions as embarrassing and urged the minister to end the practice.

He explained that phrases like “Your boys are here” or “We are greeting you, Sir” were often subtle ways of requesting money, noting that these actions leave a poor impression on foreign visitors. According to him, airport staff must maintain professionalism and avoid behaviour that suggests corruption or desperation.

Reacting to the senator’s comment, the President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, said the aviation sector had made progress in recent years. He noted that his recent experience at the airport showed major improvements, adding that he was not approached by any official asking for favours, a sign that things were changing.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, also commended Keyamo for transforming the country’s airports, describing his leadership as a major step forward for Nigeria’s image.

In his remarks, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, said new technology had reduced human contact at airports, making clearance faster and more efficient. He noted that automated systems now handle most passenger processes, leaving little room for human interference.

Responding, Keyamo assured Nigerians and international visitors that his ministry was committed to maintaining professionalism at all airports. He said preparations were underway to ensure guests attending the 2026 World Public Relations Forum would receive a warm and dignified welcome upon arrival.

He added that a new VVIP department would soon be established at international airports to cater to top dignitaries and ensure smooth entry procedures.

The 2026 World Public Relations Forum, scheduled for November at Eagle Square in Abuja, is expected to be one of Nigeria’s largest global communication events, attracting diplomats, communication experts, and government leaders from across the world.