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Keyamo Insists No Turning Back on Cashless Payments at Airports

Published by Samuel Ayomide on March 14th, 2026.

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to implementing a cashless payment system across Nigerian airports, with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, declaring that the policy will proceed despite earlier concerns and temporary adjustments.

Speaking during an inspection visit to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, the minister emphasised that the current hybrid payment arrangement — which allows both cash and electronic transactions — is only a temporary measure.

According to The Punch, the government intends to transition fully to an automated, cashless system at all airport revenue points in the near future.

“There is no going back on the cashless system,” Keyamo said while addressing airport officials and stakeholders during the visit.

He stressed that the Federal Government had already issued directives prohibiting government agencies from collecting cash for official payments.

“For those who think they can frustrate the system because they prefer traditional cash collections, we have moved beyond that stage,” the minister said, noting that the policy aligns with broader reforms aimed at improving transparency in government revenue generation.

Hybrid System Only Temporary

The aviation minister explained that the temporary hybrid arrangement currently in place was introduced mainly to ease the transition for airport users and operators while the infrastructure for full automation is being strengthened.

Reports by The Nation Newspaper indicate that the inspection followed earlier concerns over the implementation of the policy at airport tollgates, which prompted the Federal Government to briefly review its rollout.

However, Keyamo clarified that the ultimate goal remains a fully digital system where payments are made electronically without the use of cash.

He also revealed that the directive to accelerate the transition came directly from President Bola Tinubu, who has set a timeline for the ministry to complete the reform.

“At the last Federal Executive Council meeting, Mr. President gave me a clear deadline to ensure that the aviation sector goes fully cashless,” Keyamo said.

No More Special Privileges at Airport Tollgates

The minister also used the opportunity to reiterate the government’s decision to eliminate preferential treatment for certain individuals at airport tollgates.

According to The Guardian Nigeria, the move means that VIP travellers and government officials will no longer enjoy automatic waivers or special access at airport toll points.

The measure, officials say, is intended to promote fairness and ensure that all users comply with the same payment procedures.

Digital Payments to Be Cheaper

To encourage wider adoption of electronic payments, Keyamo disclosed that he had directed the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to make cashless transactions more attractive to airport users.

Under the proposed framework, digital payment options may carry lower charges than cash payments, creating an incentive for motorists and passengers to embrace the new system.

Industry observers say such measures could help improve revenue tracking while also reducing opportunities for leakages in the aviation sector.

Minister Warns of Accountability

During the visit, Keyamo also hinted at stricter oversight of agencies responsible for implementing the policy.

While acknowledging that FAAN had previously handled most of the operational details, he said he would now take a more active role in ensuring the policy is fully enforced.

“I take responsibility for the implementation of this policy,” he said in remarks reported by Vanguard Nigeria.

The minister added that officials responsible for any delay or non-compliance with the directive would be held accountable.

“I will ensure the system works. If Mr. President is pushing me to deliver results, I will also push those under my supervision to meet the target,” he stated.

Part of Wider Aviation Reforms

The cashless initiative forms part of broader reforms aimed at modernising Nigeria’s aviation sector and improving financial accountability across government agencies.

Experts believe the transition could enhance transparency in airport operations, reduce corruption risks, and improve service efficiency for travellers.

However, stakeholders have also called for adequate infrastructure and public awareness to ensure a smooth transition once the fully automated system is introduced.