Former ACP Igbafe Spearheads Security Overhaul at Nigeria’s Airports, Targets AI-Driven Access Control

Retired Assistant Commissioner of Police, Afegbai Albert Igbafe, now Director of Aviation Security Services under the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has revealed the comprehensive measures being implemented to bolster airport security. 

In an exclusive interview with journalists recently, Igbafe said since his appointment, he has been at the forefront of addressing critical challenges, particularly in the aftermath of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) audit.

Upon assuming office in December, 2023, Igbafe and his team were met with a myriad of security issues that required urgent attention. 

“We met a lot of issues when we came on board,” he admitted, noting that one of the first steps taken was the upgrading of the airport’s CCTV camera systems. 

“Presently, we are trying to do access control whereby every individual that is coming to the airport will be properly checked,” he explained.

This initiative, he emphasised, is crucial in curbing unauthorised access by concessionaires and security personnel who have no business within the airport premises.

These efforts are part of a broader strategy to address the gaps highlighted by ICAO during their audit. 

“We had a lot of gaps during the ICAO audits, so we’re trying to fix up those gaps,” Igbafe stated, underscoring the importance of these upgrades in aligning with international aviation security standards.

The security of the airports’ perimeter has been a longstanding issue, further exacerbated by encroachments from neighbouring communities. 

“We had a lot of encroachments in the perimeter areas because it’s a vast land,” Igbafe explained. 

In response, Igbafe disclosed that FAAN has implemented patrol measures, including joint patrols with the military and the Air Force, as well as the establishment of observation posts manned by AVSEC (Aviation Security) personnel.

He noted, however, that the challenge remains daunting. “We will get as many as 20 to 30 intruders every night,” Igbafe revealed. 

The legal framework has also proven to be a stumbling block, as many intruders are released shortly after being handed over to the police. 

To address this, Igbafe said FAAN is collaborating with the Attorney General of Lagos State to establish mobile courts that can swiftly handle such cases, thereby reinforcing the airport’s security measures.

In response to allegations that some private airlines are involved in money laundering, Igbafe disclosed that a task force, recently launched by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, is currently investigating the activities of private jet owners. 

“We are monitoring them,” he assured, adding that strict screening procedures are being implemented for everyone accessing private jets or hangers at the airport.

When questioned about the treatment of VIPs, Igbafe was clear that no one is above the law. “Nobody is being given preferential treatment in the airport. Even my minister subjects himself to search, my MD subjects herself to search, I subject myself to search,” he asserted. 

He said a fast-track system is being considered to facilitate seamless processing, but it will be available to anyone willing to comply, not just VIPs.

Looking to the future, Igbafe highlighted the steps being taken to integrate modern technology into the airport’s security framework. 

“We are preparing an algorithm whereby everybody will put in the database,” he said, referring to the introduction of a database system for AVSEC personnel. 

This system will track certifications and training schedules, ensuring that all staff are up-to-date with their ICAO-mandated courses.

Igbafe disclosed that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is also set to play a significant role in enhancing security at the airport. 

He revealed ongoing discussions with companies proposing AI-based solutions that would work in tandem with the planned access control systems. 

“If you have any weapons with you…the AI will detect it and immediately send a signal to the command centre,” he explained, signalling a move towards a more proactive and technologically advanced security apparatus.

Since taking office, Igbafe has also addressed long-standing issues within AVSEC, including the non-gazettement of uniforms and the lack of training for personnel. 

“Some people have been in AVSEC for about 20 years, they’ve not gone on the course,” he lamented. 

He, however, disclosed that with the support of FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, and the Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, funds have been released to facilitate training programs, including courses for international participants from Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Gambia.

Reflecting on the progress made, Igbafe pointed to the reopening of the second international runway at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, which had been closed for over nine months, as a significant milestone. 

“I can assure you that between now and December, you will see a new face of Aviation and the airports,” he confidently declared, signalling a future of improved security and efficiency at one of Nigeria’s busiest airports. 

As aviation security at the airports continues to evolve under his leadership, Igbafe remains committed to ensuring that the nation’s airports not only meet but exceed international standards, paving the way for a safer and more secure aviation environment in Nigeria.