By ITOHAN ABARA-LASERIAN

The management of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) has introduced stringent safety measures, including reduction of airside speed limit, to strengthen operational discipline and enhance airside safety.

This is contained in a communique issued by the Airport Safety Committee at its May 2026 Meeting.

The communique was issued on Tuesday in Lagos.

According to the committee, it adopted a tougher approach against reckless driving and other safety rules violations.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Airport Safety Committee is made up of safety managers from various airport stakeholder organisations.

The committee members meet regularly to deliberate on airport safety concerns and recommend solutions.

It said that airside speed limits within the International Terminal Zone 1 (ITZ 1) construction areas had been reduced from 15km per hour to 10km per hour.

It said the adjustment became necessary due to ongoing rehabilitation works on the E-Wing and D-Wing, which significantly reduced available operational space.

The committee said that 15km-per-hour speed limit would, however, remain in force within ITZ 2, while adequate signage would be installed to ensure compliance.

It announced inauguration of an airside task force to oversee strict monitoring of vehicles, equipment and personnel operating within restricted airport areas.

The committee warned ground handling companies, fuel marketers and caterers to avoid rule violations, stressing that drinking, smoking and reckless driving within airside zones remained prohibited.

“Unserviceable vehicles will be removed, and any faulty equipment causing oil leaks or pavement damage will be impounded and fined,” it said.

It identified Foreign Object Debris (FOD) as a critical safety concern, banning sale of sachet alcohol drinks within the airport environment.

“FOD poses a serious threat to aircraft safety.

“Improved housekeeping, proper waste disposal, and heightened environmental discipline are non-negotiable,” it said.

The committee said that as part of the enhanced safety measures, regular alcohol testing had been introduced.

It said that all operational airside communications must be conducted on designated frequencies, while certain handheld radio usage restrictions remained in place to prevent interference with air traffic control operations and pilot communications.

Other concerns highlighted during the meeting include congestion at arrival halls during peak periods, baggage handling delays, damaged taxiway infrastructure, deteriorating road conditions and access control challenges at ramp entrances. (NAN)