The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is preparing to roll out a pilot programme aimed at introducing cashless and contactless payments across airports nationwide.
This is in a bid to modernize airport operations and improve passenger experience.
The FAAN Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, disclosed this at a stakeholders engagement forum in Lagos, with the theme: “Strengthening Partnerships for Sustainable Growth and Development.”
She described cash payments at airports as outdated and inefficient in today’s globally connected environment.
Kuku recalled with concern incidents of diversion of cash into personal accounts.
While condemning such conduct, the FAAN MD noted that disciplinary actions have already been taken against offenders.
She said the introduction of automated payment systems is to address these challenges.
The new system will allow passengers and service providers to conduct transactions using standard bank cards, QR codes, payment links, and digital wallets such as Apple Pay.
Seamless airport operations
According to her, these innovations are designed to ensure financial transactions across FAAN-managed facilities are seamless, secure, and easily traceable.
Kuku said FAAN is also focusing on enhancing the commercial landscape within airport terminals as the authority plans to optimize the retail mix.
This involves providing a broader variety of services and moving away from the current dominance of repetitive offerings such as multiple lounges or similar dining options.
Mrs. Kuku emphasized that all retail operators would be held to high service standards, aimed at elevating the overall passenger experience.
Security procedures at the airports will also go through a major overhaul as FAAN plans to integrate domestic boarding gate processes with biometric data and National Identification Numbers (NIN) for passenger verification.
According to her, this shift will eliminate the current reliance on physical ID card checks, promising faster and more secure boarding processes.
Addressing ongoing concerns about terminal infrastructure, Mrs. Kuku disclosed that a dedicated committee is reviewing renovation plans.
Kuku reaffirmed FAAN’s commitment to collaborate with stakeholders in crafting solutions that support business growth and deliver superior service to passengers.
The goal of these measures she explained is to create an efficient, profitable, and passenger-focused airport environment that meets the evolving demands of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
