‘My Chairman Sir’: Why Begging and Extortion Persist at Nigerian Airports

Passengers arriving at Nigerian airports, especially the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, continue to report begging, touting, harassment and demands for money from people stationed around the terminals. Many say the repeated calls of “my chairman sir” and requests for tips create a poor first impression for visitors. Travellers have also alleged that some officials demand money, treat passengers differently and frustrate those passing through customs or immigration. An airline executive similarly criticised the gap between improved airport infrastructure and the poor conduct still experienced by passengers. FAAN and the Aviation Ministry have acknowledged the complaints and introduced measures including task forces, staff rosters and possible sanctions for concessionaires whose workers are caught extorting travellers. However, passengers say the problem persists, raising questions about whether the reforms will be consistently enforced.

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