The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has distributed over 70,000 Go Cashless cards. To ease traffic congestion and restore smooth operations at airports.
The update was provided by Henry Agbebire, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at FAAN. During an interview on ARISE News on Tuesday.
He acknowledged that the transition created inconvenience for travellers and road users, mm. Offering an apology to those affected while assuring that the situation is improving.
He admitted that the transition caused inconvenience for travelers and road users, apologized to those affected, and assured the public that the situation is improving.
Key Details About the Go Cashless Policy
FAAN’s Go Cashless policy, which began on March 1, 2026, eliminates cash payments. At airport toll gates, parking areas, and executive lounges nationwide.
Agbebire explained that while preparations for the system started months earlier. Many users delayed registration until enforcement began, leading to long queues at entry points.
Between October and late February, about 30,000 cards were issued. However, after the March 1 enforcement date, registrations surged, with an additional 40,000 cards processed in just three days.
Despite public awareness campaigns and onboarding efforts before the deadline, last-minute compliance created operational challenges.
“But interestingly, as I speak to you, we’ve issued over 70,000 cards in total. Gradually, we believe the tension will ease as the government’s Go Cashless program becomes more widely recognized and adopted,” Agbebire said.
He highlighted that the Go Cashless card is the fastest payment option at access gates. Thanks to its contactless scanning feature, which allows barriers to open almost instantly. Other payment options include debit cards and E-tags. Though card payments at point-of-sale terminals may take longer and could slow traffic during busy periods.
FAAN’s Expectations and Advice for Travelers
FAAN expects traffic flow to stabilize within a week. The agency has advised travelers, especially international passengers, to arrive earlier than usual to avoid missing flights.
“We are hopeful that normalcy will return in about a week. But I must emphasize this: we’ve issued regular travel advisories. It’s standard practice for international travelers to arrive at the airport three hours before their flight,” Agbebire said.
How the System Works
Under the new system, cash payments are no longer accepted at FAAN-controlled entry gates, parking areas, or lounges. All payments must be made electronically through approved channels.
Motorists can choose from four payment options:
- Go Cashless card – The fastest option, using contactless scanning.
- Debit/ATM cards – A valid alternative but slower during peak times.
- Standard E-tags – For regular users.
- VIP E-tags – Designed for frequent users and registered vehicles.
FAAN emphasizes that while all methods are valid, the Go Cashless card and E-tags offer the quickest processing at busy gates.
