Australian Author Decries Airport “Shakedowns” in Viral Nigeria Travelogue
LAGOS — Australian writer Mark Pollard has sparked an intense digital firestorm after alleging that security operatives subjected him to a relentless “shakedown” during a recent visit to Nigeria. In a video statement that trended across social media platforms on Thursday, February 12, 2026, the author recounted being solicited for cash at least ten times while navigating the nation’s international airports. Pollard, clearly bewildered by the frequency of these unofficial demands, questioned whether such encounters represent the standard operational procedure for travel within the country. Consequently, the viral footage has reopened a painful national conversation regarding the ethical conduct of frontline personnel at Nigeria’s primary gateways.
The author’s critique extended beyond the airport terminals to the ubiquitous security checkpoints dotting Nigerian motorways. Pollard questioned the underlying purpose of these stops, wondering aloud whether they served genuine security interests or merely functioned as “shakedown checkpoints.” Furthermore, he observed that even hospitality staff seemed more preoccupied with soliciting tips than conducting standard safety protocols. While it is true that Pollard praised Nigeria’s creative sector, particularly crowning the nation as “number one in fashion,” his admiration was overshadowed by the systemic harassment he experienced. Significant portions of the online community have since validated his claims, noting that his observations hold a mirror to a lived reality many citizens face daily.
Nigeria, why do so many people say, “Now you give me money”? When did this start and why did it escalate? pic.twitter.com/DVyMmjsewW
— Mark Pollard (@markpollard) February 13, 2026
Some commentators argue that Pollard’s experience may be an outlier or a byproduct of cultural misunderstanding regarding the “tipping” culture. Granted, the distinction between a voluntary tip and a coerced bribe often blurs within the Nigerian informal economy. However, critics maintain that the sheer volume of requests—ten times in a single transit, suggests a more coordinated and predatory behavior by state actors. In a related development, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has previously introduced central screening points to minimize such interactions. Nonetheless, this latest testimonial suggests that these administrative reforms have yet to fully penetrate the operational culture of the various agencies manning the ports.
Significantly, the “Pollard Video” serves as a sobering reminder of the reputational damage caused by petty corruption at the borders. Notably, the Australian writer asked a poignant question that struck a chord with the populace: “Am I overreacting? Because this must stress you out on a daily basis.” This psychological assessment of the Nigerian condition underscores the deep-seated fatigue residents feel toward normalized exploitation. Above all, the incident highlights the urgent need for a radical shift from “revenue-driven” policing to a service-oriented security architecture. If these grievances remain unaddressed, they could continue to act as a significant deterrent to the nation’s burgeoning tourism and investment aspirations.
Therefore, the government must prioritize a holistic overhaul of personnel training and surveillance at all international terminals. As a result of this viral embarrassment, Nigerians are once again demanding a country where “shakedowns” are the exception, not the identity.