Tinubu Suspends Cashless Payment Policy at Nigerian Airports After Traffic Gridlock

March 4, 2026

President Tinubu has ordered the immediate suspension of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria’s (FAAN) newly introduced cashless payment policy, just four days after its rollout triggered severe congestion at major airports across the country.

The policy, launched on March 1, 2026, required electronic payments for airport access gates, parking, and lounges, effectively barring cash transactions. Its implementation, however, caused long queues at key hubs, including Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, with reports of passengers missing flights due to delays.

Speaking after the Federal Executive Council meeting, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said the President had directed that the policy be halted and thoroughly reviewed.

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READ ALSO : Cashless Rollout Triggers Traffic Snarls at Lagos International Airport

Airports Authority Defends New Cashless System

The minister stated that FAAN and the Ministry of Aviation would temporarily implement a hybrid system, allowing both cash payments and the use of prepaid FAAN cards already issued to motorists.

“The President remains committed to a fully electronic revenue collection system, but he directed that the review should be completed quickly to restore efficiency at airport entry points,” Keyamo said.

He added that the government would explore private sector involvement to ensure the electronic system is perfected, warning that the current gridlock must not recur.

“The President instructed me that this shouldn’t take too long. We should return to the drawing board and, if possible, engage the private sector to establish an electronic system that allows revenue collection without causing the congestion we are currently experiencing,” the minister explained.

The suspension comes amid public frustration and operational disruptions at airports nationwide, highlighting challenges in transitioning Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure to a cashless model.

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Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.

Amanze Chinonye

Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.

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