The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has ordered the immediate evacuation of tanker drivers, limousine operators, and other informal business owners operating along the Murtala Muhammed Airport road in Lagos. The directive, issued by FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, warns that enforcement action will commence soon to address the safety and environmental risks posed by these unauthorized operators.
The announcement was made during a media briefing at FAAN’s headquarters in Lagos, as part of the 2025 FAAN Safety Week. Kuku expressed concern that despite repeated notices and engagements, many unauthorised operators continue to occupy the airport corridor, compromising safety standards and environmental quality. The presence of tanker drivers, limousine operators, and commercial bus drivers along the airport road has been identified as a major safety risk, obstructing vehicular movement and contributing to pollution and poor sanitation.
FAAN has conducted a comprehensive sanitation and environmental assessment to identify and notify all encroachers ahead of the planned clearance exercise. The agency has worked closely with the Lagos State Government and federal security agencies to ensure full compliance. Kuku warned that relocation is now inevitable and that the area will be cleared soon.
The issue of poor environmental management around airports has broader implications, including the attraction of wildlife, particularly birds, which increases the risk of bird strikes and poses a significant hazard to flight safety. FAAN remains committed to engaging with neighbouring communities, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders to sustain a safe, secure, and environmentally compliant airport ecosystem.
As part of the 2025 FAAN Safety Week, Kuku also led an interactive session on Safety Management Systems (SMS) with the agency’s directors, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and aligning with international best practices in aviation safety. The session highlighted the need for stronger collaboration among legislators, regulators, airline operators, and service providers to promote adherence to safety and environmental standards across the aviation industry.
The evacuation directive is a significant step towards addressing the safety and environmental concerns around the Murtala Muhammed Airport. With the planned clearance exercise imminent, FAAN is emphasizing the importance of compliance and cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure a safe and secure airport environment.
