Tinubu orders Keyamo to suspend FAAN cashless policy
Gossip • 1h ago
**Airport Gridlock: Tinubu Steps In, Orders Review of Cashless Policy**
In a move aimed at easing the sufferance of travelers, President Bola Tinubu has directed the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to suspend its new cashless policy. The policy, which was rolled out just four days ago, has been causing massive traffic congestion at airports across the country.
As of last week, Nigerians were faced with severe gridlocks at major airports like Lagos' Murtala Muhammed International Airport and Abuja's Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. Long queues, stranded motorists, and missed flights were the order of the day as travelers struggled to navigate the new system.
The "Go Cashless" policy, which aimed to digitize payments at airport access gates, parking lots, lounges, and other access points, was intended to eliminate corruption and optimize revenue collection for the federal government. However, its implementation has been marred by logistical challenges, leaving many to question its feasibility.
In a decisive intervention, President Tinubu has ordered the aviation minister, Festus Keyamo, and FAAN's leadership to halt implementation and review the policy. According to Keyamo, the president has instructed them to "go back to the drawing board" and develop a more people-friendly alternative that balances revenue transparency goals with passenger convenience.
This move is a testament to the president's commitment to addressing the needs of Nigerians and ensuring that policies are implemented in a way that minimizes suffering. As the aviation sector continues to evolve, it is essential that policies are designed with the needs of travelers in mind. By suspending the cashless policy, President Tinubu has sent a strong message that the comfort and convenience of Nigerians will take precedence over bureaucratic interests.