FG Signs Deal to Deploy Biometric Passenger Verification System at Airports

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The Federal Government of Nigeria has signed a new agreement to introduce a contactless biometric passenger verification system, known as VPASS, across all domestic airports in the country.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed that the deal was signed on Thursday, April 9, as part of efforts to strengthen aviation security.

According to the minister, the deployment of the VPASS system is aimed at improving passenger identification processes, enhancing data integrity, and boosting revenue generation within the aviation sector.

“Yesterday, I signed a concession agreement on behalf of the Federal Government for the deployment of a contactless biometric passenger verification system, known as VPASS, across Nigeria’s domestic airports,” Keyamo said.

He noted that the agreement followed approvals from key regulatory bodies, including the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, and the Federal Executive Council.

Keyamo explained that the new system is designed to address persistent inconsistencies in passenger data caused by varying airline records, as well as curb unauthorised boarding practices.

“The initiative is designed to eliminate discrepancies in passenger data arising from inconsistent airline records, while also addressing unauthorised boarding practices,” he stated.

He added that the VPASS system would ensure that all passengers on domestic flights are properly identified, thereby closing existing gaps that allow individuals to bypass standard identification procedures.