FAAN Issues 100,000 Access Cards Amid Tollgate Chaos

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has issued 100,000 airport access cards in response to chaos caused by the enforcement of a cashless tollgate policy. FAAN's Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, disclosed that 62,000 cards were issued within three days of the policy's enforcement, which began on March 1.

The rollout led to severe traffic disruptions at major airports, prompting President Bola Tinubu to order the suspension of the new payment system to alleviate the situation. This decision came after reports of long queues and motorists missing flights due to the gridlock.

Kuku acknowledged the significant bottleneck created by the initial enforcement despite prior public awareness campaigns. The temporary suspension allows motorists to pass freely without payment, with the goal of ensuring safety and a seamless experience for passengers.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, confirmed the president's directive, emphasizing the need for efficient electronic solutions at airports nationwide.