The Federal Government has commenced a review of the newly enforced cashless payment system at airports nationwide, following its first week of implementation.
The policy, introduced by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on March 1, 2026, prohibits cash payments at airport access points, toll gates, car parks and lounges as part of efforts to curb corruption and improve revenue accountability in the aviation sector.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said the review would assess the initial rollout and identify areas for improvement.
“I, along with my team, will be reviewing the first one week of our going cashless at all our payment points at airports across the country in order to eliminate corruption and optimise revenue,” Keyamo wrote in a statement posted on X on Wednesday.
He urged Nigerians to be patient as the system evolves, stressing that cash collections at airport facilities would no longer be permitted.
How the System Works
To support the transition, FAAN has introduced several digital payment options for motorists and travellers.
The FAAN Go Cashless Card is positioned as the primary and fastest payment method. Frequent airport users may opt for an E-Tag, which enables automatic deductions upon entry.
A VIP Sticker system grants pre-approved access to authorised vehicles, while ATM or debit cards can be used at point-of-sale terminals installed at airport gates, subject to network availability.
Authorities have advised airport users to obtain and preload payment cards ahead of arrival to minimise delays.
Reform Targets Revenue and Transparency
According to FAAN, the transition to digital payments is aimed at eliminating revenue leakages and strengthening operational efficiency. The ministry projects the reform could significantly boost internally generated revenue while aligning Nigeria’s airports with global digital best practices.
Early Disruptions
The rollout, however, was marked by traffic congestion at major airports, particularly Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, as many motorists arrived without prepaid cards.
Some travellers reported extended waiting times while attempting on-the-spot registration. Authorities acknowledged the disruptions but described them as temporary adjustments during the transition phase.
Next Steps
The ministry said the ongoing review would examine compliance levels, operational efficiency, revenue performance and user feedback, with adjustments expected as the system stabilises.
Officials maintain that the cashless policy remains a central reform aimed at promoting transparency and modernising airport operations nationwide.