The Federal Government has explained that its decision to implement a cashless policy at Nigerian airports is part of efforts to improve efficiency, strengthen transparency, and enhance passenger convenience.
The policy is being implemented through the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, which recently launched the FAAN Airport Contactless Card in Abuja.
Speaking at the official launch, the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Ms Adebola Agunbiade, said the initiative marks a major step toward transforming Nigeria’s airports into globally competitive and technology-driven hubs. “For years, our airport revenue points, from access gates to car parks and lounges, have relied heavily on cash. This outdated system has slowed operations and created vulnerabilities in revenue collection,” Agunbiade said.
She added that the new cashless approach is designed to make payments faster, safer, and more convenient for passengers.
“We decided to go cashless to improve efficiency, strengthen transparency, and enhance passenger convenience,” she stated. Agunbiade described the newly launched FAAN Airport Contactless Card as “the physical embodiment of our Go Cashless vision.”
According to her, the prepaid contactless card will allow travelers to make seamless payments across airport facilities without using cash. She explained that the card offers several benefits, including faster transactions, improved security, and real-time SMS notifications for every payment made. “The system ensures optimized revenue collection and greater financial accountability,” she emphasized.
Agunbiade disclosed that the rollout of the cashless system will begin with airport access gates and VIP lounges before expanding to all FAAN-managed airports nationwide. She said the process will be implemented in phases to ensure a smooth transition and full integration with other airport systems. “We are introducing technology that makes airport services simpler, faster, and safer for everyone,” she added.
FAAN assured travelers that the initiative would bring Nigeria’s airports closer to global best practices and support the government’s digital transformation drive. Officials said the move would also help plug revenue leakages, enhance data accuracy, and promote accountability in airport operations across the country.