Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has announced an end to VIP passes at airport gates identifying it as a major drain on national revenue payments at airport tollgates.
Speaking at a recent inspection of the new system’s implementation, Keyamo criticized the entitlement of government officials, including Ministers, National Assembly members, and their various aides, who frequently demand free passage.
He noted that the abundance of official-sounding titles in Abuja often leads to individuals feeling they are above paying standard tolls.
The Minister declared that this practice must stop immediately, asserting that no one, regardless of their rank or political connections, will be exempt from the new cashless payment requirements as the government seeks to maximize revenue and restore transparency to airport operations.
Keyamo also revealed that President Bola Tinubu has issued a strict deadline for the transition to a fully cashless operation.
The Minister emphasized that this move is a direct response to a legacy of systemic corruption, noting that for over fifty years, the practice of collecting cash at various points has fostered financial leakages and illicit behavior within the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
The Minister warned that he is prepared to take drastic measures against any airport officials who hinder the transition.
He stated that because the President has placed the responsibility squarely on his shoulders, he will not hesitate to sack subordinates before the President has a chance to sack him.
Keyamo clarified that while the implementation of the hybrid system was initially left to FAAN, he has now taken full control to ensure the presidential mandate is met without further delay.