Cargo Terminal: FAAN Plans Biometric, Vehicle Tracking System

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is implementing a new biometric and vehicle tracking system at the Pilgrims and Cargo Terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. This initiative aims to mitigate congestion, prevent unauthorized access, and enhance safety and security at the facility. The Directorate of Cargo Development and Services, headed by Director Lekan Thomas, recently consulted with various government entities operating at the terminal to brief them on the upcoming access control measures.

The approved system will restrict entry to designated areas of the terminal to only registered, verified, and authorized individuals, businesses, and vehicles. FAAN's Integrated Cargo Stakeholder Registry will act as the primary source for verifying cargo operators. Biometric identification, facial recognition, fingerprint verification, and electronic access records will be introduced as part of the security measures.

In Phase One, Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras and boom barriers will be installed on two out of four lanes at Gate One. Additionally, CCTV cameras will support monitoring and investigation efforts. An X-ray scanner for baggage and parcels is also scheduled to be implemented to bolster security screening.

FAAN emphasized that these measures are not designed to hinder legitimate cargo operations, but rather to eradicate unauthorized access, boost accountability, and minimize unnecessary movements of people and vehicles.