Chaos at Abuja Airport: Passengers and Motorists Stranded as FAAN Enforces Full Cashless Policy
Major disruptions hit the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) in Abuja over the weekend as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) fully implemented its "Go Cashless" programme, banning cash payments at airport access gates. The policy, which took full effect on March 1, 2026, requires motorists to use prepaid "Go Cashless" cards or electronic payment methods for tolls and access. This aligns with the federal government's push for cashless transactions to enhance transparency, reduce revenue leakages, and promote digital efficiency. The initiative, piloted since late 2025 in partnership with platforms like Paystack, now covers key airports including NAIA in Abuja and Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos. However, the sudden strict enforcement caught many off guard. Long queues formed at toll gates as motorists without the prepaid cards were denied entry, turned back, or directed to on-site registration points. This led to seve...