Senator Osita Izunaso (Imo West) has called on the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, to caution officials of the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, and other uniformed personnel at airports against begging air travellers for money.
The lawmaker described the conduct of some airport officials as a national embarrassment, saying it undermines Nigeria’s image before visiting foreigners.
Izunaso made the remarks at an event themed “Responsible Communication: The Voice of the World,” where Nigeria is preparing to host the 2026 World Public Relations Forum, attracting participants from 126 countries.
He said, “Honourable minister, a lot has been said about what you are doing at the airport. When you arrive at the airport now, you just carry your bag and you move in. Good work! That is fantastic.
“But you also have to look at the personnel including the customs, immigration and all the people that work at the airports. You will always hear scream, ‘Your boys are here, Sir!’ or ‘We are greeting you, Sir!’ You know, this does not depict a very good image of our country.
“So, please tell them there will be no “Your boys or girls are here!” We know they are doing their work. But there is a way they will be looking at you that will make you know they are actually looking for something more than that their work.
According to the senator, such unprofessional behaviour, including excessive greetings and subtle demands for “tips,” gives foreigners a wrong impression about Nigeria.
Credit: Punch
