Dr. Olumide Abraham Ajayi, a Lecturer at the School of Art, Management and Social Science and current Head of Department of the General Studies Department of Skyline University Nigeria (SUN) has reiterated the importance of effective security culture in combatting crime to the barest minimum in Nigerian Airports. He made this statement recently while presenting his keynote address at the National Aviation Security Week in conformity with the directives of Airport Council International (ACI) on 26th October 2021.
The event with the theme ‘Promotion of Security Culture in Nigerian Airport’ was organized at Mallam Aminu Kano Int’l Airport, Kano to promote security awareness and improve the public perception about the National Aviation Security. Dr. Ajayi who spoke extensively on the topic, “Reinvigorating Effective Security Culture at Mallam Aminu Kano Int’l Airport”, stated that security is an integral part of civil aviation operations and products offered to the public, hence the need for effective security culture at the Airport. He stated that this will guard against a series of threats that could cause physical, reputational, or financial damage to people and the entire country.
In his opinion, the greatest threat to Airport security is those who might breach security for personal reasons. He suggested that the Airport Security System conducts proper background checks before recruitment of operatives; employ well-trained, well-motivated professionals; create awareness on the importance of effective security culture, provide security equipment & gadgets in line with the best practice in the Aviation sector; provide a conducive working environment for employees; reward excellent performance and punish erring officials and make security the responsibility of everyone in the organization.
While stating that policy and strategy, duty assignment, assessment, decision, feedback and implementation are some of the variables of security culture review model that will Increase patronage at the Airport. He added that it will, in turn, bring about the promotion of foreign direct investment, Peace of mind and genuine trust in the system, amongst others.
He applauded the Airport Council International (ACI) for organizing such Programmemes that will benefit not only the Airport officials but the Country as well.