Tinubu Suspends FAAN Cashless Airport Policy After Gridlock Disrupts Flights

President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate suspension of the controversial cashless policy introduced by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) following widespread complaints and traffic congestion at major airports.

The directive came just four days after the policy was rolled out across airports in the country.

The policy, which began on March 1, required travellers and visitors to make digital payments through “Go Cashless” cards or POS systems to access airport gates, parking areas and lounges.

However, shortly after its introduction, the system reportedly caused heavy traffic at several airports, including the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. Long queues of vehicles were recorded, with many motorists stranded and some passengers missing their scheduled flights.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the suspension while briefing State House correspondents after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting chaired by President Tinubu.

According to the minister, the President directed the aviation ministry and FAAN management to stop the implementation of the policy and carry out a proper review.

Tinubu also asked the authorities to return to the planning stage and develop a more practical and passenger-friendly system that will improve revenue transparency without causing inconvenience to airport users.

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