FG calls for vigilance at airports over ISIS threat

There is an intense security measure at the nation’s airports following threat by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) to attack commercial flights and bring “bloodshed to the skies,” Daily Trust reports.

The Federal Government had alerted the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Comptroller General, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to the threat via a letter dated May 25, 2018 from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

According to the letter seen by our correspondent, ISIS appears to be re-strategizing with more focus on the Middle East and Asia, following the loss of most of its territory in Iraq and Syria.

The letter said, “Although Africa appears not to be on ISIS immediate focus, the return to Africa of former ISIS fighters from Iraq and Syria as well as the existence of ISIS-linked groups such as the technically suave Abu Musab Al-Barnawiled Boko Haram faction call for increased vigilance in the aviation sector to counter possible new strategies in the ISIS terror campaign.

“From the foregoing report, rigorous vetting of airline personnel and screening of passengers as well as increased vigilance on restricted areas at airport are advised.”

Following the alert, relevant agencies at major international airports have taken measures to intensify screening of passengers and luggage.

A visit to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos indicated that authorities had beefed up security in and around the airport.

General Manager, Corporate Affairs of FAAN, Mrs. Henrietta Yakubu told our correspondent that, “We are ensuring that only those that are travelling gain access to the airports. If you don’t have a cogent reason for entering, if you don’t have your ID card as a member of staff, on-duty card, you are turned back.

“We have improved on the patrol of the airside and the runway. Some patrol vehicles are permanently parked on the airside. We have almost covered the entire runway with our CCTV. It will soon be completed. I can assure you everything is under control”.