FAAN Plots New Tariffs, Ditches Cash for Cards

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is set to implement a wave of changes that could reshape how airports operate across the country. At a recent forum hosted by the Directorate of Commercial Business Development in Lagos, the agency revealed plans to increase service provider tariffs and phase in a contactless payment system across all FAAN-managed airports.

The motive? Financial sustainability. With 92% of its earnings coming from aeronautical revenues, FAAN says the updates are essential for staying afloat and improving efficiency. Speaking at the event, FAAN’s Director of Commercial and Business Development, Adebola Agunbiade, explained that tariff reviews would be done carefully and fairly.

“We will ensure service providers are notified early enough. This allows businesses to plan without disruptions,” Agunbiade assured.

She stressed that the tariff adjustment wouldn’t affect providers whose fees were recently reviewed but would balance FAAN’s need to keep operations running smoothly.

FAAN: Seamless Airport Payments Around the Corner

Beyond the tariff hike, FAAN is shifting towards a fully automated payment model. The plan includes a new airport card system where users can tap and pay, removing the need for physical cash.

“All payments will soon be made online using our airport card. You tap and go. It’s seamless,” Agunbiade said, adding that the move would simplify payment structures and create better records for both FAAN and its stakeholders.

According to her, contactless systems will bring more transparency, particularly as FAAN ramps up automation across its parking zones and tollgate points. In 2023 alone, the agency generated ₦2 billion from “below-the-line” platforms, showing massive untapped potential in non-aeronautical revenue.

Olubunmi Kuku, FAAN’s Managing Director, reinforced the vision for modernisation. She noted that automation enhances financial tracking and supports cleaner, more secure airport operations.

“Automation makes it easier to track your payment. We are going cashless for better visibility, transparency, and accountability,” Kuku said.

New Rules for Leases and Tougher Stance on Illegal Vendors

At the same forum, FAAN also addressed lease restructuring and the need for clearer contract terms. Agunbiade acknowledged past confusion over lease agreements and assured stakeholders that newer terms would be simpler and more practical.

Kuku didn’t hold back when discussing enforcement, either. She warned that unauthorised car hire and forex vendors would be ejected from airport premises.

“We cannot have disorganised businesses at the roadside. It’s a security risk and unsuitable for an airport,” she said.

The planned reforms align with FAAN’s bigger goal: building a more accountable and globally competitive airport system. From smarter payments to better-regulated commercial spaces, the authority is preparing for a cleaner and more tech-driven future in Nigeria’s aviation sector.