Keyamo Affirms Commitment to Cashless Payments at Airports

Festus Keyamo has reiterated that Nigeria’s airports are set to completely adopt a cashless payment system, affirming that the federal government has no intention to roll back this policy, notwithstanding the temporary hybrid payment option currently in place.

The minister made these statements during an onsite evaluation of the hybrid payment system at the tollgate of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

Keyamo clarified that the existing hybrid system, which accommodates both cash and electronic payments, is merely a provisional measure while preparations are underway for a fully automated payment platform.

He underscored the government's objective to eradicate cash transactions at airport revenue points. To promote this shift, he has instructed the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to ensure that digital payment methods are more economical than cash transactions.

In his remarks, Keyamo mentioned that this policy aligns with a federal directive that mandates government agencies to cease cash collection. He stated, “There is no going back on the cashless system. For those who believe they can hinder the cashless transition because they favor traditional cash methods, we have moved beyond that stage.”

Furthermore, Keyamo indicated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has set a strict deadline for the full implementation of the cashless system across airports. He shared, “We are committed to going cashless. During the last Federal Executive Council meeting, the President clearly specified a timeline for me.”

He stated, “The President instructed me as the Minister of Aviation to ensure complete transition to cashless operations, and I will ensure compliance among my subordinates.”

The minister warned that those responsible for applying the policy would face consequences if delays occur. “Before the President considers terminating my position, I will also address the shortcomings of others,” he remarked.

Although the implementation of the payment system was previously overseen by FAAN, Keyamo has now assumed direct responsibility for the initiative. “Initially, I entrusted the implementation solely to FAAN, with detailed operations managed by them, but now as the Minister, I will take full charge,” he asserted.

He concluded by emphasizing that the hybrid payment system presently in operation will only serve as a temporary arrangement as the government advances towards a fully digital payment infrastructure in Nigeria’s airport facilities.