By Sade Williams
Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operators of Murtala Muhammed Airport Two (MMA2),has debunked reports of ticket racketeering at at the terminal.
The operator, which was reacting to allegations that ticket racketeering is prevalent at MMA2, with one-way ticket prices being sold for as high as N250,000 due to the involvement of airline staff and touts, said MMA2 operates under stringent security and operational protocols designed to prevent such activities.
It described the claims as unfounded and baseless.
According to its Spokesespersom, Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, ‘ Our internal monitoring systems have found no indications of intentional hoarding of air tickets or collusion between airline staff and touts to inflate ticket prices’, adding that it takes pride in being the best terminal and as it constantly prioritizes passenger experience.
While addressing allegations that touts within the terminal are using private PoS machines to facilitate fraudulent payments, Yonka-Olawuyi stated that all ticket transactions are conducted at the airlines’ sales booth using their official means of payment provided by the airlines.
To combat any form of touting or illegal activities, she said MMA2 collaborates closely with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Aviation Security (AVSEC), and other relevant authorities.
She explained that in June 2024, FAAN established a joint task force specifically aimed at addressing and reducing touting activities across all Nigerian airports.
Speaking on the development, BASL’s Airline Manager, Bisola Ademola-Davies, said, ‘MMA2 is in continuous discussion with airlines to ensure that their process and practices do not leave room for anything that could undermine a seamless passenger experience which is what we pride ourselves in. Our collective efforts have significantly curtailed illegal activities, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to maintaining this progress.
“The safety and security of our passengers are of paramount importance to MMA2. We have implemented robust measures, including advanced surveillance systems, comprehensive staff training, and regular security audits, to ensure a safe and seamless travel experience for all passengers.”, he said.
Also speaking, Monica Oguta, Head Aviation Security, BASL, said, “Our surveillance systems monitor adherence to security protocols within MMA2. Registered protocol officers, who have undergone background checks by the Nigerian Police and BASL AVSEC, operate through their companies, not as individuals. Anyone found engaging in illegal activities will be blacklisted.
Oguta reiterated that “passengers are encouraged to buy tickets through authorized channels, with AVSEC personnel available for assistance. We collaborate with airline partners and regulatory authorities to maintain transparency and accountability in all operations.”
She added that MMA2 remains a leading private terminal in Lagos, Nigeria, known for its state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional passenger service.
“We continue to uphold the highest standards of safety, security, and efficiency in the aviation industry, reinforcing our dedication to serving the traveling public with integrity and excellence.’
The Head of Corporate Communications, Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi said, “Any person found engaging in illegal activities will face the full force of the law, reinforcing our zero-tolerance policy towards any form of misconduct. Our commitment to passenger safety is unwavering, and we continually strive to uphold the highest standards of security. Passengers should feel free to approach our help desks strategically located within the terminal, we are always here to help and take complaints. Our communications department is equally open to all.”
