The cashless policy introduced by the FAAN on March 1 required motorists and airport users to make payments strictly through digital channels.
By Deborah Hassan
365Daily – President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate suspension of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria’s (FAAN) controversial cashless payment policy, just four days after its implementation led to widespread gridlock at major airports across the country.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed tthison Wednesday, March 4, 2026, while briefing State House Correspondents at the Presidential Villa after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by the President.
According to Keyamo, Tinubu directed FAAN and the ministry to halt the policy’s enforcement and return to the drawing board to work out a more practical and passenger-friendly approach. The President emphasised the need to strike a balance between improving revenue transparency and ensuring seamless airport access for travellers.
The cashless policy introduced by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria on March 1 required motorists and airport users to make payments strictly through digital channels, including the “Go Cashless” cards and Point of Sale (POS) systems, for access gates, parking areas and lounges.
However, the rollout immediately triggered chaos at some of the country’s busiest airports, including Murtala Muhammed International Airport and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. Long queues of vehicles built up at entry points as many passengers and drivers struggled with payment procedures, leading to missed flights and stranded travellers.
The suspension is expected to provide temporary relief to airport users while authorities reassess the policy framework and address operational lapses that marred its introduction.