The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has declared that cash payments will no longer be accepted at any of its pay points across the country’s airports, effective Sunday, March 1.
This move, part of FAAN’s ambitious “Go Cashless” initiative, promises faster, safer, and fully digital transactions, but it also raises questions about accessibility in a nation where cash remains a staple for many.
The announcement, detailed in a statement released by FAAN on Friday, mandates that all passengers, visitors, and service users switch to electronic payments for services including access gates, car parking, and executive or VIP lounges.
This policy extends to all FAAN-controlled airports, both international and domestic, and is designed to eliminate queues and enhance security by minimizing cash handling. “In line with the directive of the Central Bank of Nigeria, effective March 1st, 2026, cash will no longer be accepted at any FAAN pay point,” the statement emphasized. “That means at all our international and local airports—from access gates to car parks and executive lounge entries—every transaction must be digital.”
FAAN’s initiative is not starting from scratch. It builds on a pilot program launched in September 2025 at two of Nigeria’s busiest hubs: Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) in Abuja.
These locations were selected due to their high traffic volumes—over 300,000 vehicles pass through their access gates monthly, and their VIP lounges cater to thousands of travelers annually. The phased rollout allowed FAAN to test contactless systems, phasing out cash at key revenue points while ironing out potential glitches before a nationwide expansion by the first quarter of 2026.
To ease the transition, FAAN has introduced the “Tap and Go” system, urging passengers to obtain specialized “Go-Cashless” cards at access gates, commercial offices, or designated lounges. These cards, which integrate with point-of-sale (POS) terminals and QR codes, enable quick taps for payments, avoiding the need for physical cash or lengthy card insertions.
Starting March 16, the cards will also be available at select branches of Fidelity Bank Plc, providing an additional pickup option for frequent flyers. FAAN has assured users that the system is secure, with built-in measures to protect against fraud and ensure seamless operations.
This policy aligns closely with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) longstanding push for a cashless economy, a directive that has gained momentum since the 2012 introduction of cashless policies and was accelerated during the 2023 naira redesign crisis.
By encouraging digital transactions in public services, the CBN aims to curb corruption, improve financial inclusion, and boost economic efficiency. FAAN’s Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, recently reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to this vision, stating that the cashless system will “improve convenience for all stakeholders” while adhering to national guidelines.
However, the shift has sparked mixed reactions among travelers and airport users. On the social media platform X, some have expressed confusion over the card registration process. One user questioned whether the system fully integrates with existing POS and QR options, asking FAAN for clarification on why additional cards might be needed.
Others have labeled the move as “useless” amid Nigeria’s ongoing challenges with digital infrastructure, such as unreliable internet and power outages in some regions. Despite these concerns, supporters highlight the potential benefits, including reduced robbery risks at busy airports and shorter wait times during peak hours.
FAAN has addressed potential hurdles by advising passengers to prepare in advance. Those with questions can approach any FAAN information desk at the airports or visit the official website at www.faan.gov.ng for more details.
As Nigeria’s aviation sector handles millions of passengers annually—with MMIA alone serving as the gateway for international travel—the success of this initiative could set a precedent for other public institutions to follow suit.
As the March 1 deadline approaches, airport operators are ramping up awareness campaigns, including SMS notifications and on-site signage. Whether this marks a smooth takeoff for a digital future or encounters turbulence remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: cash is officially grounded at Nigerian airports.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Starting Sunday, March 1, 2026, no cash will be accepted at any Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) pay points—including access gates, car parks, and executive/VIP lounges—across all Nigerian airports. All transactions must be digital (cards, mobile payments, or Tap and Go cards). Prepare now to avoid issues at the airport.
