LEGAL MEASURES FOR EFFICIENCY TO COUNTER INSIDER THREAT IN AVIATION SECURITY IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The Nigerian Civil aviation industry faces significant security challenges, including the threats posed by 
insiders. These include airline employees, airport staff and contractors having authorized access to 
sensitive areas and system, making them potential security risk. In recent times, there are recorded instances 
of insider threat militating against efficient and virile aviation industry in Nigeria. One of the instances 
occurred in November 2022, where security screeners and immigration personnel at Murtala Mohammed 
International Airport Lagos were reported to have planted drugs in passengers’ luggage to demand bribes. 
The same airport, has a high number of stowaway incidents, which aviation security experts attributed to 
frequent security breaches due to possible collaboration. The paper adopts a mixed method approach, 
combining surveys, interviews and case studies to gather data from aviation security experts, airline 
employees and airport staff. The paper examines the insider threat phenomenon in the Nigerian civil 
aviation industry and identifies key motivators for insider threats, which include financial gains, ideological 
extremism and revenge. It also highlights vulnerability in current security framework including inadequate 
background checks, non-implementation of strict access control and insufficient training. Consequently, the 
study recommends a multi-faced approach to mitigating insider threats, including conducting regular 
background checks, implementing strict access control, regular training and awareness programs, 
improved access control measures. The work specifically suggests the implementation of mitigation 
measures such as increased monitoring and proactive efforts on security awareness training to safeguard 
airport resources and the travelling public against acts of unlawful interference which will usher in a 
regime of responsive aviation governance for sustainable development in Nigeria.