The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has addressed the viral story of a man who claimed he was detained by security agents at Murtala Mohammed International Airport for using his camera.
The man, who goes by @chupatric on X, shared his experience online, questioning whether it was wrong to record videos inside the airport. He wrote:
@mikeachimugu01 Good morning sir, please I have a question. At MMIA I was detained by AVSEC because of my GoPro, which I use to document my travels on my YouTube page. I was taken to the office downstairs, showed them videos on my gallery which were personal shots—can’t we make personal videos?
In a statement released on X on February 21, FAAN clarified that the man had been recording within a restricted Security Screening area, which clearly displays signs prohibiting filming. Officers reportedly asked him politely to stop, emphasizing that other travelers have the right not to be recorded without consent—an issue that often generates complaints.
According to FAAN, when the passenger refused to comply, he was invited to the Crime Investigation & Intelligence (CII) Unit office for clarification, but he was not detained. The discussion focused on guidance for acceptable camera use within the airport. The passenger subsequently deleted the recording, provided a written undertaking, and continued his journey.
FAAN stressed:
We want to reassure everyone that personal selfie videos are not restricted. Intervention only occurs when filming involves other passengers without consent or captures sensitive operational or security areas. These measures protect privacy, safety, and smooth airport operations. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in maintaining a secure and comfortable travel environment for all.