Najeeb G. Abdulhamid
Over a decade of constant travel has made me intimately familiar with the inner workings of the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA).
This isn’t just an airport to me—it’s a gateway that embodies the spirit of Kano. Through this article, I seek to celebrate its strengths, spotlight its challenges, and inspire those in power to elevate its standing.
My observations come from a place of respect and hope, grounded in the belief that with intentional effort, MAKIA can set the standard for excellence.
Let us begin with what MAKIA gets right:
Professionalism Across the Workforce
From the security checkpoints to the check-in counters, MAKIA’s staff members, by and large, exude professionalism. They are courteous, diligent, and committed to ensuring travellers have a smooth experience—a hallmark that deserves recognition.
Impeccable Cleanliness
The international wing stands out for its cleanliness, rivaling some of the best airports I’ve frequented. Remarkably, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, MAKIA’s adherence to protocols was exemplary, even surpassing globally renowned airports like Dubai’s in some respects.
Reliable Connectivity
Frequent travelers know the frustration of weak airport Wi-Fi, but MAKIA’s signal strength is refreshingly robust—better even than Addis Ababa Airport. This attention to passenger comfort is commendable.
These are not trivial achievements; they form the foundation of a strong service culture. However, every coin has two sides, and it is in the spirit of constructive feedback that I turn to areas demanding urgent attention.
Extortion at Entry Points
The behavior of some gate fee revenue collectors is nothing short of scandalous. Many travelers, myself included, have faced demands for payment without receipts, or excuses like “no change” to pocket extra cash. Authorities must eliminate this malpractice by implementing an automated revenue collection system. A transparent process would not only curtail extortion but also enhance public trust.
Favoritism and Queue Jumping
Instances of immigration officers abandoning their posts to assist VIPs with luggage undermine the professionalism for which MAKIA is otherwise known. Equality and fairness must be upheld, and the management should monitor such behavior closely.
Aggressive Solicitation by SAHCO Staff
Overzealous SAHCO staff often insist on filling out immigration forms for travelers, turning what should be a voluntary service into an obligatory transaction. Even when politely declined, they prevail—expecting a monetary tip in return. This practice must stop. It tarnishes the reputation of the airport and frustrates passengers unnecessarily.
Trolley Monopolization
MAKIA stands out as one of the few airports where accessing a trolley without porter assistance is nearly impossible. While creating jobs is important, monopolizing a basic service like trolleys alienates passengers. A balanced system should allow for both self-service and paid assistance.
Washroom Extortion
It’s shocking that something as basic as tissue paper and handwashing soap becomes a bargaining chip in airport washrooms. Attendants hoard these essentials, presenting them when in need with an expectation of a tip in return. This practice must be abolished immediately. Restrooms should reflect the airport’s commitment to passenger comfort, not an opportunistic hustle.
Excessive Demands at Exit Gates
Travelers often encounter customs, immigration, and NDLEA officials who exploit their positions under the guise of “doing their job,” with thinly veiled attempts to extract bribes. While many officers perform their duties with integrity, it takes only a few bad apples to spoil the experience for everyone. This behavior must be stamped out through stricter oversight and accountability.
A Call to Action
MAKIA holds immense potential to be a shining example of Nigerian hospitality and efficiency. The positives far outweigh the negatives, but the negatives cannot be ignored. Addressing these challenges requires bold, transparent, and sustained action from the relevant authorities.
To the management of MAKIA: Listen to the voices of the travelers who pass through your gates every day. These aren’t criticisms to tear you down—they’re opportunities to build an airport that every Nigerian can be proud of.
To my fellow travelers: Your I’mexperiences matter. Share them constructively and hold those in charge accountable. Together, we can drive the changes that will make MAKIA a source of pride for Kano, for Nigeria, and for Africa.
What’s your take on MAKIA? Share your experiences—good and bad. Change begins with a conversation.
Najeeb G. Abdulhamid’s Article first Appeared on his Facebook page on 11/24/2024