…TSA-approved, ORION 928, Itemizer 5X deployed for narcotics, explosives, currency
Passengers and cargo passing through Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos can expect enhanced safety and security measures following a significant upgrade of the airport’s security infrastructure.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has implemented a multi-pronged approach, featuring the installation of advanced screening machines, the introduction of e-gates, and a collaborative monitoring system involving various security agencies.
A cornerstone of this upgrade is the deployment of the cutting-edge ORION 928 DX screening machine.
Described by Chima Ogechukwu Juliet, Head of Department for ICT, MMIA, as a “leap from analog to digital television” in screening technology, the ORION 928 DX boasts superior capabilities compared to previous methods.
This advanced system utilizes “inspection four-color imaging” (SP4) to provide exceptionally clear visuals, enabling rapid identification of potential threats.
Its dual functionality allows for the simultaneous, real-time detection of both narcotics and explosives, a significant improvement over older machines with singular detection capabilities.
The “target and nap scan” function instantly identifies explosives, while sophisticated internal “chemistry” pinpoints narcotics, relaying this information through the clear SP4 imaging.
Crucially, the ORION 928 DX features a “dual mode auto set” with an intensive algorithm for detecting organic materials in both range and interactive modes.
This allows operators to pre-set parameters for items like excess agricultural products and conduct on-the-spot identification of suspicious organic materials for further investigation.
The machine can also detect large amounts of currency, allowing operators to highlight suspected amounts exceeding travel regulations for closer examination. Notably, the ORION 928 DX is TSA-approved, meeting high international security standards.
MMIA Lagos currently has six ORION 928 DX units and four ORION 928 7 DX machines, with plans to install an additional four units within the next three weeks, underscoring FAAN’s commitment to modernizing security infrastructure.
Comprehensive training has been provided to airport personnel by the UK-based manufacturer to ensure efficient operation and basic maintenance of the new machines.
The implementation of the ORION 928 DX is expected to significantly expedite passenger movement. Its precise threat identification minimizes the need for frequent manual searches.
When narcotics are detected, the system guides operators directly to the substance within the baggage via the SP4 imaging, allowing for targeted secondary searches and minimizing disruption for the majority of passengers.
Furthermore, FAAN is actively fostering a more integrated approach to security through a collaborative monitoring system.
New screening machines will be equipped with multiple monitors, allowing personnel from agencies such as NDLEA, DSS, Immigration, and Quarantine services to simultaneously monitor screenings for items relevant to their mandates.
Customs officials will also benefit from the advanced detection capabilities, including currency identification.
This collaborative system aims to eliminate the need for routine secondary table checks.
Suspected baggage identified during the initial screening will be directed to designated observation rooms equipped with CCTV surveillance for further investigation, with NDLEA having access to full-body scanners within these areas.
In addition to advanced screening, FAAN is introducing e-gates for seamless passenger processing.
Currently under a test run, these e-gates utilize body scans and ticket verification, reducing the need for manual checks at the initial security checkpoint.
Meanwhile, security at the cargo export and import warehouses at MMIA has also been significantly enhanced with the acquisition of the latest explosive trace detector, the Itemizer 5X.
This new machine, according to the Head Security in the Nigeria Aviation Handling Company, NAHCO, Mr. Olowoyeye which replaces an older model, can detect even the smallest traces of explosives in every shipment leaving the warehouse, ensuring the safety and security of all cargo.
Six operators have been trained to use the TSA-certified Itemizer 5X, which was acquired with the support of DASS (Directorate of Aviation Security Services).
While specific arrest and seizure statistics since the upgrades were not disclosed for security reasons, the Director of Security Services, FAAN, ACP Afegbai Igbafe (rtd), affirmed that these advancements are actively contributing to efforts in combating money laundering and trafficking.
The focus remains on the collaborative identification of potential threats, with AVSEC personnel alerting the relevant agency based on their screening protocols.
The installation of additional monitors for the collaborative monitoring system is slated to commence within the next week, part of a broader effort to fully automate airport security within the next month.
This automation will encompass access control and comprehensive CCTV coverage monitored from a central command center.
FAAN emphasizes that security is a collective responsibility and urges passengers and the public to report any suspicious activity.
The ongoing upgrades represent a significant step forward in enhancing safety, security, and streamlining passenger and cargo processing at Nigeria’s busiest international airport.
