By Chidi Ugwu
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on Monday officially launched a contactless payment system as part of its “Operation Go Cashless” initiative at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, marking a major advancement in modernizing Nigeria’s aviation sector.
FAAN Managing Director and Chief Executive, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, announced the full deployment of this cashless payment solution on October 5, 2025, following its successful rollout in Lagos earlier.
“Effective September 29, 2025, physical cash was been phased out at all FAAN revenue points including airport access gates, car parks, and VIP/protocol lounges.
“Passengers can now use the new FAAN Contactless Airport Card, which offers seamless, instant payments through a unified wallet accessible nationwide across all FAAN-managed airports.
“The card provides real-time transaction alerts, online balance management, and security features such as instant blocking of lost or stolen cards.
“The initiative aims not only to enhance passenger convenience with faster and more hygienic transactions but also to improve transparency, reduce revenue leakages, and align Nigerian airports with global best practices.
“FAAN has deployed trained brand ambassadors and customer support personnel to assist passengers during the transition” stated Kuku.
Represented by Adebola Agunbiade, Director of Commercial and Business Development at FAAN, Kuku congratulated the Commercial and Business Development Directorate led by Ms. Adebola Agunbiade for driving the successful implementation despite challenges and expressed optimism about achieving significant digital revenue milestones soon.
Earlier speaking in her capacity as the Director of Commercial and Business Development during the unveiling of the project to journalists, Agunbiade, said the rollout of the contactless card began with selected facilities at Muritala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, with plans to extend to all FAAN-managed airports nationwide.
FAAN has partnered with fintech leader Paystack to secure a reliable and robust technological platform for the initiative.
Agunbiade further called on media professionals to support the initiative by helping to inform and educate the public about the card, amplify its national benefits, and shape positive narratives around the modernization of Nigerian airports.
“Your pens, your microphones, and your cameras are powerful tools,” she said, urging the press to play a key role in facilitating a smooth transition to a cashless airport environment.
Passengers and stakeholders can find more information on the FAAN cashless project at www.gocashless.faan.gov.ng
The launch marks a significant step towards a more efficient, transparent, and convenient future for air travel in Nigeria.
Ms. Adebola Agunbiade took questions after her address, reinforcing FAAN’s commitment to delivering a modern airport experience nationwide.
