Airport Chaos Eases as FAAN Distributes 70,000 Cashless Access Cards

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria says it has issued more than 70,000 Go Cashless cards to reduce congestion and stabilise airport operations after disruptions followed the rollout of its nationwide cashless payment system.

Speaking during an interview on ARISE News, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, apologised to passengers who experienced delays in the first days of implementation.

He acknowledged that motorists and travellers faced significant inconvenience but noted that corrective steps have already eased the pressure at airport access gates.

Last-Minute Rush Triggered Gridlock

Agbebire explained that sensitisation and card registration began in October 2025, months before the March 1 enforcement date. Between October and February 28, about 30,000 users had registered.

However, many travellers reportedly waited until the deadline before attempting to obtain the card, resulting in long queues and traffic build-up when the policy took effect.

Once enforcement began, FAAN deployed additional personnel to speed up registration at entry points. Within three days, another 40,000 cards were issued, bringing the total to over 70,000.

Four Payment Options, One Faster Choice

Although four payment methods are available, FAAN maintains that the Go Cashless card is the fastest and most efficient at toll gates because it is contactless and allows immediate access.

Passengers may also pay with debit cards, though transactions at POS terminals can take longer and slow down vehicle movement. E-tags, including VIP E-tags for frequent users, are also available to facilitate quicker entry.

Agbebire stressed that the authority had encouraged early registration to avoid exactly the type of congestion experienced during the first days of enforcement.

Travellers Advised to Arrive Earlier

FAAN has advised passengers particularly international travellers to arrive at least three hours before departure and factor in an additional 30 minutes to one hour during this transition period.

The authority expressed optimism that traffic conditions will normalise within a week as more motorists obtain the cards and become familiar with the system.

Policy Driven by CBN Directive

The cashless policy, which eliminates cash payments at airport toll gates, car parks and executive lounges, took effect on March 1, 2026. It aligns with directives from the Central Bank of Nigeria and is being implemented in partnership with Paystack.

Initially announced in September 2025 and launched at major airports in Lagos and Abuja, the system is designed to improve transparency, speed up transactions and potentially increase revenue by reducing cash handling.

Despite the rocky start, FAAN insists the reform will ultimately deliver a faster, safer and more efficient airport access process.