The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has reaffirmed its commitment to modernizing the nation’s aviation sector through the introduction of a fully cashless payment system across all Nigerian airports. The agency said the move is part of its broader strategy to eliminate inefficiencies, prevent revenue leakages, and ensure faster and more transparent service delivery to passengers and stakeholders.
Speaking during the official unveiling of the FAAN Airport Contactless Card in Abuja, the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Ms. Adebola Agunbiade, described the new initiative as a major leap toward transforming Nigeria’s airports into world-class, technology-driven centers of operation. She explained that for many years, the dependence on cash transactions at airport facilities — including access gates, car parks, and lounges — had created several operational setbacks and made revenue management more difficult.
According to Agunbiade, the adoption of a cashless payment system will not only enhance efficiency but also improve transparency in the management of funds while offering travelers a more convenient experience. She emphasized that the FAAN Airport Contactless Card symbolizes the agency’s “Go Cashless” vision and demonstrates its commitment to aligning with global best practices in airport administration.
The card, which is prepaid and contactless, allows passengers to make seamless transactions within airport environments without the need for physical cash. It also features enhanced security measures, faster payment processing, and real-time SMS alerts to keep users informed about their spending. For FAAN, she added, the system represents an important innovation that will strengthen financial accountability and ensure that every kobo generated is properly tracked.
Agunbiade noted that the rollout will begin with airport gates and lounges before expanding to all FAAN-operated terminals nationwide. The implementation is being carried out in partnership with Paystack, a leading Nigerian fintech company renowned for its secure and efficient payment solutions.
While unveiling the card, Agunbiade appealed to journalists and media organizations to help raise public awareness about the benefits of the transition to a cashless model. She noted that while technology can facilitate change, its success depends heavily on public acceptance and cooperation.
“This card goes beyond being just a payment instrument,” she remarked. “It represents progress, transparency, and a sense of national pride. By embracing it, Nigerians will not only enjoy smoother airport experiences but also contribute to building a more efficient and accountable aviation system.”
Through this initiative, FAAN aims to position Nigeria’s airports as competitive, innovative, and customer-friendly spaces that reflect the nation’s growing embrace of digital transformation in public services.