Aviation Unions Issue 14-Day Ultimatum Over Alleged Customs Assault
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Aviation workers have issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding the removal of the Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at the Pilgrims and Cargo Terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, following an alleged assault on the Director of Security at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Igbafe Afegbai.
The workers, represented by three major unions—the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), and the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP)—have also called on President Bola Tinubu to redeploy all customs officers involved in the incident.
In a strongly worded letter issued on Sunday, the unions warned that if their demands were not met by March 21, 2025, industrial action could disrupt airport operations, particularly in Lagos.
Clash Over Security Equipment
The confrontation reportedly erupted when FAAN officials, led by Afegbai, attempted to install a security scanner that had been temporarily transferred from Enugu airport. According to Afegbai, customs officers accused them of attempting to export an “illegal” machine, disregarding explanations about its purpose.
Despite efforts to clarify the situation, a Deputy Controller of Customs, identified only as Yusuf, allegedly ordered reinforcements, leading to the harassment and physical assault of the FAAN officials.
“The ugly incident that led to the attack on FAAN’s Director of Aviation Security Services is one too many,” the unions stated. “This is just the latest in a pattern of abuses by customs personnel against airport staff.”
The unions also demanded a significant reduction in customs personnel at airports, particularly in Lagos, arguing that their current numbers exceed global standards and contribute to unnecessary conflicts.
Calls for Structural Reform
Beyond the immediate demand for the removal of the customs officials involved, aviation workers are pushing for broader structural changes. They have urged FAAN to establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with all paramilitary agencies operating at airports, clearly defining their roles and responsibilities to prevent further clashes.
“If customs officers are not redeployed within the stipulated 14-day ultimatum, aviation workers cannot guarantee industry peace and harmony,” the unions warned.
Customs Responds, Avoids Assault Allegation
In response, the National Public Relations Officer of Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada, did not address the assault claims but reaffirmed the service’s authority over airport cargo terminals. He emphasised that SAHCO and NAHCO, the facilities where the altercation occurred, are licensed bonded warehouses under customs jurisdiction.
“In line with the World Customs Organisation’s Safe Framework of Standards, which underscores cooperation between Customs, other government agencies, and businesses, the NCS remains committed to fostering a collaborative working environment,” Maiwada said.
He stressed that customs-controlled areas, including bonded warehouses, operate under the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, and that the agency is working to prevent future conflicts through improved inter-agency coordination.
However, with tensions already running high and aviation workers threatening to escalate the situation, the coming days could determine whether the dispute is resolved through dialogue or disrupts operations at one of Nigeria’s busiest airports.
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