Aviation Minister Announces Hybrid Payment System at Airport Gates

The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development has announced the implementation of a hybrid payment system at all airport access gates, effective Friday, March 13th, 2026.

The decision, which allows for both cash and electronic payments, follows a temporary suspension of the full cashless policy by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu due to severe traffic gridlock caused by the initial rollout.

This was contained in a press release signed by the Special Adviser On Media and Communications to the Honourable Minister, Tunde Moshood, on Tuesday in Abuja.

According to the statement, the Minister arrived at the decision after a high-level meeting with officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and senior Ministry officials. The meeting was convened to review the operational challenges that plagued the initial cashless system.

“The ministry has resolved to engage concessionaires in order to introduce a fully automated or electronic system at access gates in order to fully and eventually eliminate cash payment,” the statement read.

However, recognizing the immediate need to alleviate public inconvenience, a temporary measure has been put in place.

“In the meantime, a hybrid payment system that accommodates both cash and card payments will resume at all airport access gates with effect from Friday, March 13, 2026.”

The new directive restores the previous payment arrangement, ensuring smoother access for motorists. Officials clarified that motorists who already possess the FAAN Go Cashless Card may continue to use them.

Furthermore, other electronic payment options, including Point of Sale (POS) terminals and other approved digital channels, will also remain available to ensure a seamless and efficient entry process.

The Ministry encouraged members of the public and road users to obtain and use the FAAN Go Cashless Card as the Authority continues to enhance and fully optimise the cashless payment system for the future.

This development brings immediate relief to travellers and commuters who had experienced significant delays at airport entry points in recent weeks.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to eventually transitioning to a fully automated system, which it believes will provide a long-term solution to traffic management and revenue collection at the nation’s airports.