Dare Babalola
In a swift response to public outcry, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has suspended the cashless payment system at Nigerian airports, citing severe traffic congestion and traveller hardship.
The policy, introduced last week by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), aimed to curb corruption and boost revenue collection.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the suspension on Wednesday after a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, stating that the president prioritised citizens’ welfare over the initiative.
“The president was concerned about Nigerians losing flights due to gridlock caused by the new system,” Keyamo explained.
The cashless system, replacing decades-old cash payments, had sparked chaos at Lagos and Abuja airports.
Long queues and congestion led to many passengers missing flights, causing widespread frustration. The situation became a major concern for the federal government.
Keyamo assured a temporary hybrid arrangement, allowing cash payments and prepaid FAAN cards, while officials develop a more efficient electronic solution.
“For those who have bought FAAN cards, we can do a hybrid system whereby we collect cash temporarily and use the cards,” he said.
The government plans to engage private sector partners to design a smoother payment platform, potentially involving private operators to manage revenue collection.
“If it requires paying commissions, so be it,” Keyamo said, emphasizing the need for efficiency.
The suspension is temporary, pending improvements to prevent future congestion. Keyamo said the ministry will provide updates as work progresses on a seamless payment solution.
The cashless policy aimed to eliminate corruption and improve revenue collection, but its implementation was criticised for being hasty. Keyamo acknowledged the policy’s flaws, citing the need for a more efficient system.
Keyamo stressed that the suspension is not a return to permanent cash transactions but a temporary measure to ease difficulties, stating that it he ministry will work with FAAN to develop a more efficient payment solution.
