The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has officially launched its “Operation Go Cashless” initiative, beginning a gradual phase-out of all physical cash transactions at the nation’s two busiest international airports.
Effective September 29, 2025, all revenue points at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) in Abuja will transition to a fully electronic and contactless payment system.
The policy, announced in a strategic partnership with Paystack, will affect payments at airport access gates, car parks, and VIP protocol lounges.
The Managing Director, FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, at a news conference in Lagos, described the move as a direct response to public demand for modern and efficient services.
Mrs. Kuku represented by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, FAAN, Mr. Henry Agbebire stated that the initiative is a cornerstone of FAAN’s strategy to enhance accountability and achieve sustainable revenue growth, with projections that the new system could triple the authority’s income.
“By significantly reducing our reliance on physical cash, we are building a system that is inherently more transparent”.
“Every transaction will be electronic, traceable and secure. This directly enhances our revenue assurance capabilities, ensuring that every dime due to the authority is duly collected and accounted for.”
According to her, for passengers and airport users, the transition is expected to deliver faster, seamless, and more secure transactions, eliminating the delays and inconveniences associated with handling physical cash.
To ensure a smooth adoption, FAAN has introduced the “FAANGo” cashless card, available for immediate activation at the Lagos and Abuja airports.
Also brand ambassadors have been deployed at terminals and gates to assist users with the new system.
The FAAN MD emphasized that embracing digital payments is crucial for keeping Nigeria’s airports competitive and aligned with global best practices.
She affirmed, “We are sending a clear message to the world that Nigeria is open for business with infrastructure that meets international standards… The world is marching on, and if you do not align, you remain in the backwoods of mediocrity”.
The FAAN boss noted that, this launch marks the first phase of a nationwide rollout. Following a successful implementation in Lagos and Abuja, FAAN will systematically expand the cashless policy to all other airports across the country.
Mrs. Kuku expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his sustained interest in the aviation sector’s growth and lauded the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, for encouraging the innovation.
She tagged the initiative as a “new dawn for FAAN, defined by technology, driven by efficiency, and dedicated to serving the Nigerian people better.”
Reporting By Nosa Aituamen