Gossip • 14h ago
No going back on cashless policy at airports – Keyamo
**Nigeria's Airports to Go Fully Cashless: Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo**
Nigeria's Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has reiterated the government's stance on introducing a cashless payment system at the country's airports. Speaking during an inspection of the hybrid payment system at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, Keyamo emphasized that the federal government has no intention of reversing the policy.
Currently, a hybrid arrangement allows both cash and electronic payments, but this is seen as a temporary measure while authorities prepare for a fully automated digital platform. The goal is to eliminate cash transactions entirely at airport revenue points, making digital payments the preferred option.
Keyamo directed the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to ensure that digital payments remain cheaper than cash transactions, which will encourage wider adoption among airport users. This move aligns with a federal government directive that prohibits government agencies from collecting physical cash.
"We have passed the stage of cash collection," the minister said, warning that officials responsible for implementing the system will be held accountable if the transition is delayed. Keyamo also revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given him a deadline to ensure the full implementation of the policy across Nigerian airports.
The introduction of a cashless payment system at Nigeria's airports will bring the country in line with international best practices and reduce the risk of corruption associated with cash transactions. With the deadline looming, it remains to be seen how quickly the transition will be completed, but one thing is certain: Nigeria's airports will soon be a cashless zone.
It's worth noting that this policy change is part of a broader effort to digitize Nigeria's economy and reduce the reliance on physical cash. With the growing adoption of mobile banking and digital payment systems, it's likely that this shift will be welcomed by many Nigerians who have already begun to abandon traditional cash-based transactions.
Overall, the introduction of a cashless payment system at Nigeria's airports is a significant step towards modernizing the country's aviation sector and reducing the risk of corruption. With the support of the federal government and the deadline set by President Tinubu, it's likely that this policy will be implemented smoothly and efficiently.