By Peter Omopo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the immediate suspension of the cashless toll system recently introduced at major airports across Nigeria following widespread complaints and traffic congestion.
The directive came after reports of confusion and heavy gridlock at airport toll gates, particularly in Lagos and Abuja, where motorists and passengers experienced significant delays.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed the President’s decision while briefing State House correspondents after the Federal Executive Council meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
According to the minister, the President directed that the policy implemented by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria be put on hold to allow for a comprehensive review.
Keyamo said the suspension was prompted by concerns over the inconvenience caused to airport users following the sudden rollout of the cashless payment system.
The policy, which eliminated cash payments at airport toll gates, was introduced to enhance revenue collection and curb leakages. However, its implementation over the weekend led to long queues as motorists struggled to obtain prepaid access cards, with some passengers reportedly missing their flights due to the delays.
The minister said the government would now collaborate with private sector stakeholders to develop a more efficient framework before reintroducing the system.
