Passengers at Nigerian airports may soon no longer see cash changing hands at ticket counters, as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) cracks down on physical payments. The authority has ordered all departments to stop accepting cash by February 29, 2026, in a strict push to enforce the Federal Government’s Cashless Policy
In a memo issued on February 3, 2026, FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, warned that staff and departments failing to comply would face stiff penalties. The directive comes after the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation flagged continued cash collections at federal agencies as a serious breach of electronic payment rules.
Under the new rules, all payments, whether in naira or foreign currency, must be processed electronically. Departments must also install Point of Sale terminals or approved digital payment systems within 45 days and clearly notify the public that cash is no longer accepted. Leadership will be held responsible if the rules are broken.
FAAN handles huge daily sums from passenger charges, concessions, and regulatory fees, making the switch to digital payments a major step in reducing fraud, theft, and revenue leaks. Mrs. Kuku said the move aligns with federal fiscal reforms and the Central Bank of Nigeria’s drive for transparent transactions.
Experts say the policy will make revenue tracking easier and reduce the chances of underreporting. FAAN’s early adoption of the rules could serve as a model for other government agencies, showing that the Cashless Policy is no longer optional but mandatory.
With enforcement now stricter than ever, both staff and passengers are being reminded: the era of cash at Nigerian airports is officially coming to an end.
