A teenage boy has been arrested after allegedly attempting to gain illegal access to an aircraft at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, in an incident that has raised fresh concerns about airport security.
Authorities said the 14-year-old was found within a restricted section of the airport’s airside, an area reserved strictly for authorised personnel. He was reportedly trying to approach or conceal himself near an aircraft, suggesting a possible stowaway attempt.
Security operatives on routine patrol detected the intrusion and quickly intervened, preventing the situation from escalating. The teenager was taken into custody without any disruption to flight operations.
Preliminary findings indicate that the boy may have bypassed multiple security checkpoints before gaining access to the runway area. Officials have launched an investigation to determine how the breach occurred and whether there were lapses in surveillance or enforcement.
Because the suspect is a minor, authorities say he is being handled in accordance with child protection and juvenile justice procedures. His guardians have also been contacted as part of the ongoing process.
Aviation experts warn that stowaway attempts are extremely dangerous, as individuals who hide in aircraft compartments face life-threatening conditions, including extreme cold and lack of oxygen at high altitudes.
The incident has renewed calls for tighter security measures and stricter monitoring of restricted zones at major airports across the country.
