President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate suspension of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN)’s controversial cashless policy, barely four days after its rollout triggered massive gridlock at major airports across the country .
The policy, which took effect on March 1, 2026, mandated digital payments via “Go Cashless” cards or POS systems for airport access gates, parking, and lounges . However, its implementation sparked severe traffic congestion at key facilities such as Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, resulting in long queues, stranded motorists, and numerous missed flights .
Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo announced the president’s directive while briefing State House correspondents after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Wednesday .
President Acts Out of Empathy
“Mr. President was very concerned about the welfare of Nigerians and the fact that most Nigerians were losing their flights. So Mr. President, out of empathy, directed today that we should suspend the present system because it creates a lot of gridlock, and Nigerians are suffering as a result of it,” Keyamo stated .
The minister clarified that the suspension does not mean the policy is scrapped. President Tinubu has directed the ministry to “go back to the drawing board” and perfect a more people-friendly alternative that balances revenue transparency with passenger convenience .
Keyamo announced that a hybrid system would operate temporarily, allowing both cash payments and the use of FAAN cards already purchased by motorists . The government also plans to engage private sector participants to develop a more efficient electronic payment system that eliminates cash at the gates without causing traffic congestion .
FAAN had earlier apologised for the disruptions, noting that while over 30,000 cards were issued before the deadline, another 40,000 users rushed to register on the first day, overwhelming the system .
The minister did not provide a specific timeline for when the improved cashless system would be reintroduced but emphasised that the President wants the issue resolved urgently .
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