VIDEO: AIRPORT CAB DRIVERS PROTEST FAAN'S 2020 VEHICLE POLICY

Cab drivers operating at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos have staged a protest against the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) over the implementation of a 2020 vehicle policy that they claim is unfavourable to their operations.

The drivers, under the aegis of the Airport Cab Operators Association, blocked a section of the airport access road on Friday, causing temporary disruption to traffic. They carried placards and chanted slogans demanding a review of the policy, which they say imposes stringent conditions on vehicle age, maintenance, and licensing.

A leader of the association, Mr. Adebayo Ogunmefun, said the policy has made it difficult for many drivers to renew their operational permits and continue their livelihood. “The 2020 policy is too harsh. Many of our members have been forced out of business. We want FAAN to listen to us and make the policy more realistic,” Ogunmefun stated in a viral video of the protest.

FAAN officials have engaged with the protesting drivers and assured them that their concerns will be looked into. The authority said the policy was designed to ensure safety and improve the quality of service at the airport but promised to review areas of difficulty.

The protest caused temporary traffic congestion around the airport, affecting passengers and other road users. Security agencies were on ground to maintain order and prevent the situation from escalating.

The development is the latest in a series of complaints by airport service providers against FAAN’s policies. Stakeholders have called for continuous dialogue between the authority and operators to address operational challenges and improve service delivery at the nation’s busiest airport.

FAAN has appealed to the drivers to remain calm and allow for constructive engagement. The authority is expected to hold further meetings with the association to resolve the matter amicably and ensure smooth operations at the airport.