The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has mounted a robust defence of its controversial airport transportation reforms, insisting that operators resisting new vehicle standards and increased operational charges have been given more than enough time to comply.
In a strongly worded statement on Thursday, the airport authority rejected allegations by some members of the Association of Private Cab Operators that its policies were unfair, arbitrary, or anti-business, declaring that the measures are designed to protect passengers and raise service standards across Nigerian airports.
FAAN maintained that airports serve as Nigeria’s first point of contact with visitors and must project a positive image through quality transportation services.
The authority said passengers deserve clean, safe, comfortable and professionally maintained vehicles, stressing that the directive compelling airport cab operators to upgrade to newer vehicle models aligns with international best practices and its broader drive to modernise airport operations.
N500 Tariff Frozen for Eight Years
Addressing criticism over the recent increase in operational charges, FAAN argued that the adjustment was long overdue.
According to the authority, the N500 operational tariff paid by airport cab operators had remained unchanged for more than eight years despite soaring inflation, rising maintenance costs and worsening economic conditions.
FAAN defended the increase to N1,500, insisting that the review reflects present-day economic realities and is necessary to sustain critical airport infrastructure and services.
The authority dismissed claims that the hike was excessive, saying it had exercised restraint for years while operational expenses continued to rise.
“We Engage Companies, Not Associations”
FAAN also pushed back against accusations that it had ignored operators’ concerns, clarifying that its official relationship is with licensed cab companies operating within airport premises and not trade associations or unions.
The authority stated that it maintains regular communication with registered service providers through established stakeholder engagement channels and remains open to constructive dialogue.
However, it stressed that operational discussions must follow regulatory procedures and are conducted directly with affected corporate entities.
Two Years of Extensions, No More Excuses
In perhaps its strongest response yet, FAAN revealed that discussions on vehicle upgrades began as far back as July 2024, giving operators ample notice to prepare.
The authority disclosed that the original compliance deadline was first extended to January 2026 and later pushed further to June 2026 following repeated requests from operators.
In what it described as another gesture of goodwill, FAAN said it is now considering a final extension until October 2026.
The authority, however, signalled that its patience is running out.
FAAN declared that the policy was never intended to punish operators or drive anyone out of business but insisted that airport transportation services must meet the standards expected by travellers.
Having granted multiple extensions spanning more than two years, the authority warned that operators have had sufficient time to comply and indicated that no further requests for deadline extensions are likely to be entertained after the proposed October 2026 cutoff.
FAAN Stands Firm
Despite the controversy, FAAN reaffirmed its commitment to working with airport cab operators while keeping passengers at the heart of service delivery.
The authority urged all airport taxi companies to embrace the reforms and collaborate in building a safer, more efficient and customer-focused airport transport system.
As opposition from some operators continues to grow, FAAN’s latest statement leaves little doubt that the agency intends to press ahead with the reforms, arguing that modern airports require modern standards and that passenger comfort can no longer be compromised.
