The Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has reaffirmed the Authority’s decision to implement a fully cashless payment system across all airport payment points nationwide, effective February 28, 2026.
The assurance was given on Wednesday, February 18, during a visit by executives and members of the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), and Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), who sought clarification on the decision to discontinue cash transactions at airports.
The meeting provided an opportunity for dialogue and stakeholder engagement in line with FAAN’s open-door policy.
In her address, Kuku emphasised that the transition to a cashless system aligns with global best practices in aviation management and Federal Government directives aimed at improving transparency, accountability and operational efficiency.
She referenced a Treasury Circular dated November 24, 2025, issued by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation and signed by the Accountant General, Shamseldeen Ogunjimi. The circular mandated the cessation of cash transactions in all government dealings following approval by the Federal Executive Council for Ministries, Departments and Agencies to discontinue physical cash collections and payments.
“There is no going back on this decision,” Kuku stated, stressing that the reform will strengthen revenue assurance and improve service delivery across Nigeria’s airports.
Addressing concerns over the use of Paystack as a third-party platform, she clarified that the firm only serves as a payment gateway for processing transactions. According to her, all payments made through Point of Sale terminals are remitted directly into designated Federal Government accounts.
Kuku also highlighted the broader benefits of the initiative, including reduced revenue leakages, enhanced transaction traceability, faster service delivery and increased public confidence in airport operations.
Union leaders expressed satisfaction with the explanations provided and described the implementation framework as practical and workable ahead of the February 28 deadline.
The move represents a key milestone in FAAN’s reform agenda, reinforcing its commitment to modernising airport operations and promoting accountability across the aviation sector.
