FAAN's Cashless System Causes Traffic Chaos at Lagos Airport

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced the introduction of a cashless payment system for vehicles accessing Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, which is set to fully commence on March 1, 2026. This initiative aims to enhance transparency and reduce delays at toll gates.

However, the transition has resulted in severe traffic gridlock, with motorists unable to access the required cashless payment cards, leading to missed flights. FAAN's previous announcement in June last year indicated that payments would be made online using airport cards, but the agency has not effectively sensitized motorists about this new policy.

On a recent Sunday, motorists without access cards were denied entry, exacerbating traffic issues. FAAN has been criticized for not conducting adequate public enlightenment campaigns and for failing to monitor the acquisition of payment cards by motorists.

The cashless system is intended to streamline toll payments, yet the lack of awareness has resulted in significant operational challenges.