Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria – Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo has confirmed that a weak section of Akure Airport’s perimeter fence was exploited during a recent security incident, but emphasized that the airport itself was not targeted.
Speaking on Frontline on Eagle 102.5 FM, Keyamo said the breach allowed some individuals, possibly fleeing kidnappers or bandits, to enter the airport grounds. “Of course, there was an intrusion into the airport, not that they were targeting the airport. The airport was not a target. Passengers were not a target,” he assured.
Keyamo addressed conflicting reports between the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the police regarding arrests made. While FAAN reported that four suspected bandits were apprehended near the airport during a joint security operation, the police stated that only two suspected logistic supporters of kidnappers were arrested along nearby routes, not on airport premises.
He added that a comprehensive investigation has been ordered to establish facts and identify any security lapses. “I have mandated them to get the true report… to link up with the police or compare notes and come out with the true situation. Appropriate disciplinary measures will follow if personnel failed in their duties,” Keyamo said.
The minister also highlighted the need for infrastructure upgrades, noting that repairing porous fences across aviation facilities requires substantial resources. “It’s just that there was a porous part of the fence at the back of Akure Airport… These are some of the infrastructure we are trying to rebuild,” he explained.
Keyamo reassured travelers that airports nationwide remain safe and are not being deliberately targeted.
