MMIA Tollgate Gridlock Intensifies Due to Cashless Policy

The implementation of a cashless payment policy at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) tollgate has resulted in severe traffic congestion, causing delays for air travelers. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) mandated that motorists pay toll access fees electronically rather than in cash, which began on March 1, 2026.

This transition has frustrated passengers, as many arrived without the required prepaid access cards, forcing them to register for electronic transactions on the spot, which significantly slowed the process. Observations noted that the congestion extended several kilometers along the airport access road, with travelers spending hours in traffic.

Industry players, including Kunle Adeyemi, expressed concerns over the chaotic implementation, which did not account for the heavy daily traffic volume at Nigeria's busiest airport. FAAN officials, including Henri Agbebir, appealed for patience, describing the current challenges as temporary, while emphasizing that the cashless policy aims to improve efficiency and reduce revenue leakage.