The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is under scrutiny as the rollout of cashless operations at airport gates may generate long queues and commuter frustration. FAAN’s rollout of cashless airport gates will surely spark long queues and commuter frustration if not properly executed, as many users do not have the time to endure lengthy payment processes. While the authority has championed modernization and efficiency, passengers and road users are struggling to adapt to the new system.
Stakeholders revealed that while the promoter has been persistent in advocating for electronic payments at airport gates—talking and taking action to ensure compliance—many commuters, stuck in their vehicles and relying mainly on auditory instructions, still struggle to navigate the system efficiently.
A key hurdle is the current incompatibility of traditional ATM cards with the gates. Drivers must insert cards, enter PINs, wait for authorization, and collect receipts—steps that significantly slow traffic flow. Experts emphasize that the fundamental advantage of electronic payments is speed, not merely security.
Economist Celestine Ukpong explained, “The transition to cashless operations is commendable, but efficiency must be prioritized. When the system introduces procedural bottlenecks, the very purpose of modernization—speed and seamless transit—is defeated. Phased implementation is critical. Give users contactless cards or remote loading options to prevent gridlock.”
Peter Adebayo FCA, a financial analyst, added, “Electronic payments require careful planning. Forcing commuters to endure long processing times creates frustration and increases operational risk. Best practices from global transit systems show that gradual rollouts, combined with public education and ready-to-use tools, are far more effective than abrupt, blanket implementation.”
Experts suggest that FAAN could distribute free contactless cards with remote loading capabilities or create a transitional phase allowing commuters to adapt gradually. Without such measures, chaos is likely, potentially forcing a retreat or delay in policy enforcement.
“This is a tried-and-tested process,” Ukpong noted. “Authorities must follow established models. Otherwise, the intended benefits of cashless operations—speed, security, and efficiency—will be overshadowed by congestion and public dissatisfaction.”
As FAAN seeks to modernize airport transit, balancing technological innovation with practicality remains paramount. Stakeholders are urging that phased adoption, combined with accessible tools and public education, be prioritized to avoid turning airports into bottlenecks rather than models of efficiency.
FAAN’s rollout of cashless airport gates may spark long queues and commuter frustration if processes are slow. Experts Celestine Ukpong and Peter Adebayo FCA urge phased implementation, contactless cards, and public education.
Discover more from Ameh News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
