Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has carried out a test-run on an upgraded baggage scanner machine that can detect explosives, narcotics and other prohibited items at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
This is part of the efforts to boost safety and security programs around airports across the country.
Speaking on the new equipment, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of FAAN, Engr. Saleh Dunoma said his interest is to ensure safety and security, protection of lives through the deployment of necessary equipment to the benefits of airlines and all our stakeholders.
This scanner is intended to complement the Executive Order recently issued, by the Acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and to also assist in the efficient operations of other agencies at the airport.
“Our intent is to deploy these scanners to our international airports but this depends on the outcome of its performance in Lagos,” Dunoma said.
Also speaking on the equipment, its supplier, Engr. Akin Mustapha said: “This is an Astrophysics Baggage Scanner which is manufactured in California, USA. It will identify hidden threats in carry-on items and checked-in baggage at airports.
It has high penetration steel and it can detect explosives and narcotics. It has six colour generations and that enables it to do a proper analysis of objects that go into it, better than others. It is highly reliable and very sensitive. In other airports around the world, they are taking away other machines and replacing them with this machine (Astrophysics) for upgrade and efficiency”.
Mustapha explained further, “With Superior image quality and innovative features including Six Colour Imaging for increased object identification and Screener Assist for automatic programmable detection, Astrophysics provides operators with the advanced tools required for quick and reliable airport screening.”
In a statement on the upgrading of equipment at the nation’s airports, Spokesperson in FAAN, Mrs. Herrienta Yakuba said the airports authority is committed to put all necessary measures in place in line with international aviation standards and recommended best practices to enhance safety and security at the airports.
