The Federal Government has declared an end to VIP privileges at airport access gates as part of its renewed drive to implement a fully cashless payment system, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo has said.
Speaking during an on-site evaluation of the hybrid payment system at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the minister warned that the era of special treatment at tollgates was over, stressing that the government will not return to the old cash-based system that often allowed VIPs and influential individuals to bypass payment procedures.
According to Keyamo, half of the revenue at airport access points was previously lost to VIP privileges. “We must not do VIP here again because half of our revenue goes to VIP. Everybody is a big man in Abuja, that’s the problem,” he said. He noted that it had become common for many government officials to use their positions to avoid paying at tollgates, undermining revenue collection.
The minister said that the hybrid system, which allows both cash and electronic payments, is only a temporary measure, with full cashless operations set to take effect soon. He explained that a federal directive prohibits any federal agency from collecting cash directly, emphasizing that the government is committed to a transparent and accountable system.
“There is no going back on the cashless system. For those who think they can frustrate it because they prefer the traditional cash collection method, we have passed that stage,” Keyamo said.
The aviation minister disclosed that the move to fully cashless operations comes under direct instruction from President Bola Tinubu. At the last Federal Executive Council meeting, Keyamo said, the president set a clear deadline for full implementation and urged the ministry to ensure compliance across all airport access points.
“Mr. President gave me a deadline. He said, Minister of Aviation, you have a deadline to go fully cashless and the moment Mr. President pushes me, I will also push those under me,” Keyamo said.
The minister also noted that, while the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) had previously overseen implementation, he has now taken direct responsibility for the process. “Before now, I left implementation fully to FAAN and the nitty-gritties were worked out by FAAN, but as the Minister, I take full responsibility and I have to take full control,” he said.
Keyamo warned that non-compliance with the cashless system will not be tolerated. He added that anyone obstructing the process would be held accountable. “Before Mr. President sacks me, I will sack other people too,” he declared.
The hybrid payment system, which combines cash and electronic options, was initially introduced to allow a smoother transition from the traditional cash-based system. However, the minister emphasized that it is only a stopgap measure, and full cashless operations will soon replace it entirely.
The move is part of the government’s broader effort to improve transparency, reduce corruption, and increase revenue collection from federal facilities, including airports. Cashless systems at airport tollgates have faced resistance in the past, particularly from influential individuals who were accustomed to bypassing payments under VIP privileges.
Keyamo said the government is determined to end this practice and ensure that all users of airport facilities pay their dues, regardless of their position or influence. He argued that such reforms are essential for the efficient management of federal resources.
The minister’s inspection at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport included checking the operations of electronic payment devices, ensuring that staff are properly trained, and confirming that the hybrid system is functioning effectively. He said that any gaps identified during the evaluation would be addressed immediately.
“The hybrid system will not last,” Keyamo reiterated. “We are going to go cashless. I would not leave my fate in the hands of any other person, and that is why I am here today to take my own fate into my hands and see how they are implementing the hybrid system.”
The minister also pointed out that the policy aims to discourage corruption and reduce the misuse of public funds. By removing VIP privileges and enforcing a cashless system, the government hopes to ensure that revenue generated at airports is fully accounted for and available for public use.
The reinstatement of the hybrid payment system comes after President Tinubu temporarily halted the cashless policy, citing operational adjustments. With Keyamo now overseeing its implementation directly, it is expected that the transition to a fully cashless system will be more strictly monitored and enforced.
For passengers, the new policy means that everyone, regardless of their status, will pay through electronic platforms or approved channels. Keyamo stressed that there will be no exceptions, marking a significant shift in how airport toll operations are managed in Nigeria.
The Aviation Minister’s declaration has already sparked reactions from frequent travelers and stakeholders in the aviation industry. Many have welcomed the move, describing it as a necessary step to improve revenue generation and reduce corruption.
While challenges in the initial rollout of cashless systems are expected, Keyamo remains confident that enforcement, combined with public compliance, will ensure a smooth transition. He reiterated that the government is committed to fully implementing the cashless policy within the set deadline.
