President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the immediate suspension of the controversial cashless policy introduced by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
The directive comes barely four days after the rollout of the policy, which triggered massive gridlock at major airports across the country.
The policy, launched on March 1, required motorists and passengers to make digital payments through “Go Cashless” cards or Point of Sale (POS) systems for airport access gates, parking, and lounge services.
Its implementation led to severe traffic congestion at key airports, including Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, resulting in long queues, stranded motorists, and several passengers missing their flights.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the suspension while briefing State House correspondents on the outcome of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Tinubu.
According to the minister, the President directed the aviation ministry and the leadership of FAAN to halt the implementation of the policy pending a comprehensive review.
Tinubu also instructed the authorities to “go back to the drawing board” and develop a more people-friendly alternative that will balance the goal of revenue transparency with passenger convenience.