The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has officially launched a contactless payment system at its airports, beginning with Lagos and Abuja, as part of a drive to enhance efficiency, transparency, and revenue collection.
Olubunmi Kuku, FAAN Managing Director, announced the rollout, saying the initiative, launched in partnership with Paystack, marks a key milestone in the authority’s efforts to modernise airport operations.
“It means faster, seamless, and more secure transactions. It means saying goodbye to delays and inconveniences associated with cash handling,” Kuku said, represented at the event by Henry Agbebire, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection.
The new “Operation Go Cashless” system will gradually phase out physical cash collection at airport access gates, car parks, and VIP/protocol lounges. Every transaction will now be electronic, traceable, and secure, enhancing revenue assurance and reducing the risk of loss or fraud.
Kuku added that the adoption of digital payments aligns Nigerian airports with global best practices and reinforces the country’s commitment to world-class infrastructure.
“Beyond convenience, this initiative is a cornerstone of our strategy for enhanced accountability and sustainable revenue growth. We are sending a clear message to the world that Nigeria is open for business,” she said.
To facilitate a smooth transition, FAAN has deployed trained brand ambassadors to assist passengers with onboarding, demonstrations, and queries. The authority also introduced the FAAN Go Cashless card, now available at Lagos and Abuja terminals.
Adebola Agunbiade, FAAN Director of Commercial and Business Development, highlighted the financial impact of the initiative:
“We project a 50 per cent increase in revenue collection at this pilot stage, rising to 75 percent as more points are integrated, with the goal of tripling revenue within the first year of full implementation. These funds will be reinvested in airport infrastructure, while passengers enjoy faster, safer, and more convenient transactions.”
The authority has also launched an extensive awareness campaign through billboards, radio jingles, social media, and on-site posters. FAAN plans to extend the cashless system to all its airports nationwide by the first quarter of 2026.
Kuku commended President Bola Tinubu for his support of the aviation sector and Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo for championing innovation within the agency.
“This launch is a critical milestone, but not the final destination. Our roadmap ensures that by 2026, every FAAN-operated airport will be fully cashless, boosting efficiency, accountability, and financial inclusion,” she concluded.
