Keyamo Reintroduces Cash Payments to End Nigerian Airport Gridlock

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo has approved a hybrid payment system at Nigerian airports, permitting both cash and electronic cards. This move follows severe traffic gridlocks at airport toll gates. The decision aims to reduce commuter hardship while the transition to a cashless system continues.

The chaos started on March 1, 2026, when the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) enforced a strict “Go Cashless” mandate. This required all motorists to use prepaid cards or POS systems for access and parking. However, the sudden enforcement caused massive bottlenecks at Lagos and Abuja airports.

Thousands of motorists were caught unprepared, leading to hours-long delays and missed flights. Many travelers abandoned their vehicles to reach terminals via commercial motorcycles. Poor network connectivity and slow card registration processes were identified as the primary causes of the congestion.

President Bola Tinubu intervened following the public outcry, expressing empathy for affected Nigerians. He ordered the immediate suspension of the strict cashless enforcement to prevent further economic and personal hardship. The President directed the Aviation Ministry to redesign a more efficient, user-friendly payment process.

Minister Keyamo responded by implementing a temporary hybrid arrangement. Airport officials are now authorized to accept cash alongside FAAN prepaid cards. This shift ensures a smoother traffic flow while the government upgrades the digital infrastructure to handle high vehicle volumes.

FAAN Managing Director Olubunmi Kuku confirmed that while the policy is adjusted, the goal remains full automation. Over 100,000 access cards have been issued despite the initial friction. The agency is now focusing on technical improvements to ensure payment platforms are reliable and fast.

The government plans to partner with the private sector to develop a high-speed electronic payment platform. This future system will aim for instant verification to eliminate physical barriers and manual delays. The objective is to maximize revenue transparency and curb corruption through technology.

Currently, motorists can use hybrid options or enjoy free passage at certain points to clear the backlog. The Ministry of Aviation has pledged that future digital rollouts will be gradual and better supported. This approach seeks to modernize airport operations without repeating the recent traffic disaster.