Paystack, FAAN launch tap and pay card for payments at Lagos, Abuja airports

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and fintech company Paystack have introduced a new way to pay airport access fees, aiming to make the process quicker and cashless.

Announced on August 28, 2025, the FAAN Prepaid NFC Card allows drivers to tap and pay at airport gates, starting at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. A nationwide rollout to all FAAN-managed airports is planned by the end of 2025.

At the gate, a driver approaches, and the Paystack Terminal displays the access fee based on the vehicle type. A quick tap of the FAAN Prepaid NFC Card processes the payment instantly, without a PIN, lifting the boom gate in seconds.

The system, powered by Paystack, ensures encrypted transactions and is designed to handle high traffic, making it ideal for busy travel periods.

Drivers can obtain the card at FAAN terminals in Lagos or Abuja. To activate it, they visit the FAAN cashless payment website or scan a QR code on the card, enter their name and phone number, verify their identity with a one-time password, and transfer at least ₦1,000 to a virtual account. After registering the card online, it’s ready for use at any FAAN-powered gate.

The partnership reflects a broader trend toward cashless systems in Nigeria, similar to the Cowry card for Lagos public transport, which has gained traction since 2021. Paystack’s infrastructure ensures accurate fee calculations and secure payments, aiming to reduce delays and enhance the airport experience.

This comes after a series of transformative initiatives under the leadership of Olubunmi Kuku, who took the helm of FAAN in 2023, per a report. At the time, Nigeria’s aviation sector faced ageing infrastructure, revenue losses, and operational bottlenecks.

Two years into her tenure, Kuku has driven a wave of modernisation, steering FAAN toward global competitiveness with strategic upgrades and a focus on passenger experience.

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At MMIA in Lagos, Kuku oversaw the rehabilitation of Runway 18R/36L and Taxiway A, restoring full operational capacity with new lighting systems for day and night flights. The Zulu Terminal’s expansion and new protocol lounges have eased passenger congestion.

Across Nigeria, airports in Enugu, Ilorin, Minna, Kano, Katsina, Jos, and Yola have seen upgraded car parks, airfield lighting, cooling systems, and power infrastructure, boosting reliability and capacity.

Security has been a cornerstone of Kuku’s reforms. Modern X-ray screening machines with automatic tray return systems, enhanced CCTV networks, and 3,000 handheld radios for security personnel have strengthened airport safety.

A recent ICAO Security Audit praised FAAN’s advancements, crediting improved access controls and emergency response systems. Passenger screening times during peak hours have dropped by 80%, earning commendations from travellers.

Financially, FAAN has thrived under Kuku’s leadership. In 2023, the agency recorded ₦343.87 billion in revenue from January to November, an 82.5% increase year-over-year, driven by smarter tariffs, automated payment systems, and partnerships like the Paystack NFC card integration.

Debt recovery efforts have reclaimed over ₦3.13 billion, with more expected from ongoing settlements. The planned rollout of Business Central ERP software in June 2025 promises to further streamline financial operations.

Kuku’s passenger-first approach has reshaped airport services. Upgraded lounges, dedicated spaces for elderly passengers and nursing mothers, and improved accessibility for travellers with reduced mobility reflect FAAN’s commitment to inclusivity.

A full refund policy for flight cancellations and faster screening and boarding processes have elevated customer satisfaction. Dedicated hotlines for passengers with disabilities are now operational at major international airports.

Recognising the importance of human capital, Kuku has prioritised staff welfare and development. Nearly 10,000 employees and 5,000 pensioners have benefited from the new minimum wage, with arrears cleared up to March 2025.

Over 6,800 staff have completed targeted training, meeting FAAN’s 2025 Performance Roadmap goal of 20 hours per employee. A new Performance Management System ensures accountability and aligns staff efforts with FAAN’s strategic vision.

The FAAN-Paystack NFC card partnership builds on these achievements, integrating cutting-edge technology to further enhance efficiency and passenger convenience, positioning Nigeria’s airports as modern, tech-driven gateways.