Stop searching passengers’ bags at airports – Keyamo warns DSS

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, clarified that the Department of State Services (DSS) is not responsible for inspecting passengers’ bags at airports.

Speaking during an interview on Arise News’ This Morning program on Sunday, Keyamo used Lagos International Airport as an example to explain the process. He noted that passengers encounter a screening machine upon entering through the arrival doors, where their bags are screened before moving to a joint inspection table.

However, this setup often causes congestion, with blockages extending to entrance gates. To address this, the ministry has dismantled the joint inspection table system.

Keyamo emphasized that the role of DSS officials is to profile travelers entering or leaving the country for security purposes, not to conduct bag checks. He explained that the DSS and other agencies now collaborate with aviation security at screening machines to eliminate redundant searches.

“What is that joint inspection table?” Keyamo asked, describing a setup where multiple agencies, including customs, DSS, NDLEA, and quarantine, simultaneously inspect passengers’ bags. “Each of them tells you to open your bags, dipping their hands into them one by one. I have not seen this in any part of the world.”

He added that such practices undermine efficiency and create unnecessary harassment. Instead, agencies should rely on the screening machines and isolate suspicious items or individuals for private searches.

Keyamo specifically highlighted that DSS officials should focus on profiling individuals and work alongside immigration to flag security concerns without disrupting airport operations. He suggested that checks should be carried out discreetly in private rooms rather than in public areas.

Addressing the federal government’s recent measures to curb harassment at airports, Keyamo clarified that the goal is not to remove security agencies but to streamline their processes.

“Nobody expects to go through an airport without security checks,” he said. “However, complaints from Nigerians consistently point to extortion, corruption, and inefficient processes. These are practices that do not align with global best standards.”

Keyamo reassured the public that the ministry remains committed to creating a more efficient and traveler-friendly airport experience.