As part of its “Operation Go Cashless” campaign, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has implemented four digital payment methods at airport access gates around the country.
According to the authority, the measure is a part of initiatives to do away with cash transactions, increase operational effectiveness, and support Nigeria’s larger shift to a cashless economy.
FAAN listed the authorized payment methods for drivers and airport patrons in a statement posted on its official 𝕏 account on Tuesday.
There are four authorized payment methods.
As per the authority, the options that are available are:
“The fastest and most seamless payment option” is the description of the FAAN Go Cashless Card.
E-Tag: Designed with frequent users in mind, it allows automatic deductions without pausing at gates.
VIP Sticker: For vehicles with authorized access and authorization.
ATM/Debit Card via POS: Available on-site; however, processing times may differ because of issues with the banking network.
“The following payment options are available to ensure efficient and seamless access,” FAAN said.
The Go Cashless Card can be obtained by airport patrons at its commercial offices and certain entrance gates across the country, according to the agency. Additionally, it revealed that online registration and card maintenance are possible via its portal.
On March 1, 2026, the cashless policy went into force, prohibiting cash purchases at all FAAN pay locations, such as executive lounges, parking lots, and toll gates.
Major hubs like Murtala Muhammed International Airport and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport were the first to implement the idea, which was first announced in September 2025 in collaboration with Paystack.
According to FAAN, the policy complies with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s directives to increase the use of electronic payments throughout the nation.
Confusion and excessive traffic at the airports in Lagos and Abuja plagued the first day of full implementation, despite the expected advantages.
Some passengers reportedly missed their planned flights due to delays caused by traffic congestion at entrance gates.
When drivers came without pre-paid cards, they had to rely on Point of Sale terminals, which led to long lines and delayed processing times.
The congestion was exacerbated by network-related problems that affected POS transactions, according to some airport patrons.
On the other hand, FAAN insisted that the program will eventually improve service delivery.
The authority emphasized that the system is intended to make transactions “faster, safer, and more convenient,” with the potential to increase income by up to 75% through enhanced transparency and less cash handling.
In order to reduce wait times at access gates, FAAN asked frequent travelers to preload their Go Cashless cards ahead of time.
At Nigeria’s main entry points, travelers are currently acclimating to a new system in which cash is no longer king.
