The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is preparing to transform how passengers and businesses handle transactions in the country’s airports with the introduction of “Operation Go Cashless”.
The initiative, powered by fintech giant Paystack, aims to replace cash-based transactions with digital, contactless payments, offering travelers a faster, safer, and more transparent experience.
According to FAAN, the system will soon roll out across Nigeria’s major airports, with plans to extend nationwide. Services such as parking, lounges, baggage handling, and terminal charges will now be paid for seamlessly through digital channels.
“Operation Go Cashless is about efficiency, transparency, and convenience,” FAAN said in a statement. “We want to deliver an airport experience that aligns with global best practices.”
Flashback: From Cash-Heavy to Contactless
For decades, Nigerian airports have been heavily dependent on cash transactions. Passengers often carried bundles of naira to pay for small services, exposing them to inconveniences ranging from long queues to fraudulent receipts.
While some digital systems had been attempted in the past, poor adoption and unreliable internet connectivity meant cash remained king. This not only slowed airport operations but also contributed to revenue leakages for FAAN.
In contrast, airports in Dubai, Doha, and Johannesburg have long transitioned to card and contactless payments, making Nigeria’s aviation sector appear outdated.
With “Operation Go Cashless,” FAAN is now taking a decisive step to bridge this gap and modernize Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure.
Paystack’s Role in the Transformation
The project is being powered by Paystack, the Nigerian-born fintech company co-founded by Shola Akinlade (CEO) and Ezra Olubi (CTO).
Paystack, now used by over 200,000 businesses, provides the tools for secure payments via multiple channels—cards, transfers, USSD, and mobile wallets—while also enabling businesses to grow by retaining and attracting customers.
“Building technology to help Africa’s best businesses grow is at the heart of what we do,” said Akinlade. “We believe that African businesses and institutions can compete globally and win. Supporting FAAN’s modernization drive reflects that vision.”
Industry experts see Paystack’s involvement as a strong foundation for the program’s credibility and sustainability.
What Passengers Should Expect
Here’s a breakdown of how the new system will affect airport users:
- Cashless Transactions: Passengers will pay digitally for parking, lounges, and related services.
- Contactless Payments: Cards and devices with tap-and-go technology will be supported.
- Multiple Options: Payments can be made through cards, mobile wallets, USSD, and bank transfers.
- Global Compatibility: International travelers will be able to pay with ease, just as they do in airports abroad.
Experts Weigh In: Boost for Transparency and Passenger Experience
Aviation analysts have described the policy as timely and necessary.
According to Dr. Gabriel Olowo, a travel and aviation consultant, the cashless transition could eliminate long-standing inefficiencies.
“Passengers want speed, safety, and transparency. With cashless payments, queues will reduce, leakages will drop, and confidence in airport services will grow. This is a game-changer,” he said.
Fintech analysts agree, adding that the program reflects Nigeria’s broader digital economy agenda. With fintech driving economic inclusion, FAAN’s adoption of Paystack signals how traditional sectors can leverage technology to meet international standards.
Reflections: Opportunities and Challenges Ahead
The new system presents immense opportunities but also faces challenges.
- Opportunities:
- Greater transparency in revenue collection.
- A more competitive image for Nigerian airports.
- Improved passenger confidence and convenience.
- Inspiration for other government agencies to adopt similar reforms.
- Challenges:
- Ensuring reliable internet at all terminals.
- Educating passengers unfamiliar with digital payments.
- Building backup systems to prevent failures during peak travel seasons.
Despite these hurdles, experts believe the initiative is a step in the right direction. It positions Nigerian airports as future-ready hubs that reflect the global shift toward digitization.
A Defining Moment for Nigerian Aviation
“Operation Go Cashless” is more than a payment system—it is a statement of intent. By adopting digital-first policies, FAAN is not only modernizing airport operations but also aligning Nigeria’s aviation sector with the federal government’s cashless economy policy.
If executed successfully, the program will enhance FAAN’s reputation, improve the passenger experience, and serve as a benchmark for public-private collaboration in digital transformation.
For travelers, it means less hassle and more convenience. For FAAN, it means better revenue assurance. And for Nigeria, it represents one more step toward proving that its institutions can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best in the world.
@2025 The Ameh News: All Rights Reserved
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