FAAN Appeals for Patience as Cashless Access Begins at Lagos, Abuja Airports

Authority deploys extra personnel and registration points after gridlock disrupts first day

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has appealed for patience from motorists and airport users following traffic congestion caused by the rollout of its cashless access programme at Nigeria’s major international airports.

The agency confirmed that the “Go Cashless” system officially commenced at the access gates of Murtala Muhammed International Airport and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, in line with the Federal Government’s directive to promote cashless transactions.

FAAN said the transition triggered heavy traffic buildup at entry points after many motorists attempted to register for access cards on the first day, despite earlier notices encouraging advance registration.

Registration rush triggers gridlock

According to FAAN, the congestion occurred because a significant number of drivers arrived at the airports without obtaining their Go Cashless cards beforehand and tried to complete registration at the gates.

This created pressure on toll lanes and slowed vehicle movement, leading to temporary gridlock around airport access roads.

While acknowledging the inconvenience caused, the authority said such adjustment challenges were expected during the early stages of implementing a major operational shift.

“We acknowledge the traffic build-up experienced at the access gates today,” FAAN said in a statement. “Despite wide publicity and repeated announcements issued ahead of the commencement date, many motorists opted to register at the gates this morning.”

Measures introduced to ease congestion

To address the disruption and improve traffic flow, FAAN said it has introduced several immediate measures, including deploying additional personnel to assist motorists and manage entry points more efficiently.

The agency also increased the number of registration centres to accelerate card issuance and enhanced on-ground coordination to reduce bottlenecks.

FAAN bans cash payments at airports from March 1

These steps, FAAN noted, are aimed at stabilising the system and ensuring smoother access for airport users in the coming days.

The authority urged motorists who have not yet registered to obtain their Go Cashless cards ahead of future visits to avoid delays.

Cashless system aimed at efficiency and transparency

FAAN said the cashless initiative is designed to modernise airport operations by reducing reliance on cash payments and improving overall efficiency.

According to the agency, the system will enable faster vehicle processing at access gates, improve transparency in revenue collection, and reduce risks associated with cash handling.

The authority added that the transition is part of broader efforts to align Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure with global best practices and enhance the experience for travellers and airport users.

FAAN reiterated its commitment to ensuring safe, efficient, and world-class airport operations, while assuring users that the initial challenges would be resolved as the system stabilises.