The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced plans to increase airport tariffs across the country while also introducing a fully contactless payment system at major terminals — a move that’s already stirring reactions from travelers and stakeholders.
In a statement released on Monday, FAAN confirmed that tariff adjustments will soon affect passenger service charges, car park fees, luggage handling, and other airport access services. The move, according to the agency, is part of a wider overhaul to improve service delivery and align with global aviation standards.
At the same time, FAAN says it is rolling out a 100% contactless payment system at airports like Murtala Muhammed International (Lagos), Nnamdi Azikiwe (Abuja), and Port Harcourt International, which will allow travelers to pay for services using cards, QR codes, and mobile wallets no more cash handovers or “random collections.”
FAAN claims the increment is necessary to cope with rising operational costs, including security upgrades, tech maintenance, and international compliance.
Acting Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, said:
“We’re not just raising prices for the sake of it. This is about modernizing our infrastructure, improving airport experience, and reducing leakages through automation.”
She added that the contactless system will enhance transparency, reduce human interference, and improve traveler confidence in the long term.
Nigerians React: ‘Dem Wan Finish Us With Bills!’
But travelers aren’t buying it — at least not quietly.
@AjalaOnTheMove on X:
“Contactless payment is great, but why e come with price hike? Everything just dey expensive.”
@NaijaFlyGirl:
“So parking fee go increase again? We never recover from the last one.”
Airport cab driver Chuka Eze told Trending Naija News:
“Most passengers dey rush pay cash. Now we go dey explain QR code to old women? E go hard small o.”
With Nigeria pushing for aviation modernization and digital transformation, FAAN’s reforms are part of a broader effort to make the country’s airports more competitive especially with Lagos set to become a regional air hub.
But many fear that, like fuel, electricity, and food, air travel may soon become an elite affair, shutting out the middle class and smaller airlines.
So the big question remains:
Will this change make flying easier or just more expensive for struggling Nigerians?