The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has maintained its stands after reactions issued in the media by both former governor of Zamfara State, Alhaji Abdulaziz Yari and Governor of Adamawa State, Alhaji Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.
FAAN in a statement stated that it was merely implementing our Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure the security and public health protocols in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
FAAN wrote,” The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) notes with dismay, two acts of infractions on the rules and guidelines for air passengers and airport users.
“The first incident occurred on Saturday, July 11, 2020, at the Aminu Kano International Airport, when the, declined to adhere to the Port Health protocols and procedures.
PUBLIC STATEMENT
1. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) notes with dismay, two acts of infractions on the rules and guidelines for air passengers and airport users. The first incident occurred on Saturday, July 11, 2020, at the Aminu Kano International Airport,— Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (@FAAN_Official) July 17, 2020
“The second incident occurred on Tuesday, July 14, 2020, when the Governor of Adamawa State, Alhaji Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, arrived at the Port Harcourt International Airport, in company of eight other passengers.
“He also fragrantly refused to observe the airport security and port health protocols.”
“As a responsible institution of the Federal Government of Nigeria, FAAN holds all officials of state in high esteem and accords them all the courtesies their status deserves.
“Therefore, FAAN has no personal issues with Alhaji Abdulaziz Yari and Governor Fintiri. We are merely implementing our standard operating procedures (SOPs) to assure the success of our Security and Public health Protocols.
“The protocols flouted by both personalities were duly approved by the Federal Government through the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19. They were intended to protect all airport users and to curb the spread of COVID-19 pandemic.”
“By their actions, the two personalities put at risk not only themselves but also other airport users.”
“These protocols are now part of the new normal all over the world, and no person, no matter how highly placed, is exempt from them, else he would be denied access to our facilities.”
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“FAAN wishes to restate the need for all air travellers to strictly adhere to the security, Public health and operational protocols put in place to make air travel in the country safe, secure, and efficient, especially in the midst of this pandemic.
“Our esteemed Government officials and other Very Important Personalities (VIP) should not only comply with the rules but provide leadership for other air travellers, by projecting good conduct and protecting public safety.”
“FAAN will continue to enforce the protocols, and advise all air travellers to adhere strictly to same.”
However, both Governor Fintiri and former governor Yari have issued statements denying the allegation.
The Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, has announced that the alleged breach of airport guidelines by some dignitaries will be investigated.
