The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) says it has issued no fewer than 40,000 Go Cashless cards since the enforcement of its new payment system began on March 1, 2026.
FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, disclosed the figure during an interview on ARISE TV, explaining that the newly issued cards are separate from the 30,000 users who had already been registered during a sensitisation drive that started in October 2025.
According to him, despite months of awareness campaigns ahead of the deadline, many travellers waited until the enforcement date to obtain their cards, resulting in heavy traffic and delays at the access gates of Lagos and Abuja airports.
Agbebire apologised to passengers and motorists affected by the congestion, describing March 1 as a firm “no-go-back” date for implementation. He said the sudden surge in last-minute registrations and card requests created operational pressure at the airport entrances.
He maintained that the Go Cashless card remains the quickest method of payment at airport toll gates. Other accepted options include debit cards, E-tags and VIP E-tags, while Point-of-Sale (POS) payments are processed more slowly.
Aderibigbe, thus, advised travellers to adjust their plans.
“When the deadline came, March 1 was a no-go-back date. Suddenly, the pressure was heavy. When you’re travelling internationally, you should get to the airport three hours before departure. Now, we are advising people”, he appealled.
