Budget Defence: Reps Decry “Security Parade” in Airports – Keyamo assured committee efforts to streamline airport protocols
By Fatima Saka
The National Assembly Joint Committee on Aviation on Wednesday reviewed budget performance figures in the aviation sector, raising concerns over low financial implementation in certain areas as the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), appeared before lawmakers.
Ministry officials addressed questions surrounding reported zero per cent financial performance in some budget lines, explaining that the figures reflected delays in cash releases rather than inactivity. They maintained that core operational responsibilities, including safety oversight and security coordination, were ongoing despite funding constraints.
The committee pressed the ministry for clarity ahead of its forthcoming appearance before the Appropriation Committee, insisting that detailed documentation be provided to justify allocations and spending patterns.
During the session, lawmakers also criticised what they described as the excessive parading of security personnel at Nigerian airports, saying the practice creates unnecessary congestion and projects a poor image of the country’s aviation system.
Members faulted the display of large convoys of police, civil defence, and other operatives lining airport routes to receive public officials, arguing that such arrangements inconvenience passengers and disrupt airport operations.
Some lawmakers compared the situation with practices in the United Kingdom and the United States, where senior government officials reportedly move through airports without elaborate security displays.
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In response, Keyamo assured the committee that efforts were underway to streamline airport protocols, improve passenger experience, and align operations with international best practices.
The committee pledged sustained oversight to ensure greater efficiency, accountability, and professionalism across aviation agencies.
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