The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has defended its recent directives on airport cab operations, vehicle standards and operational charges, stating that the measures are aimed at improving passenger comfort, safety and service quality across Nigerian airports.
In a public statement issued on June 22, 2026, the Authority responded to concerns raised by members of the Association of Private Cab Operators over the enforcement of vehicle upgrade requirements and the review of operational tariffs.
FAAN said airports serve as a country’s gateway and often create the first and last impression for visitors, making it necessary to maintain high service standards in all areas, including airport transportation services.
According to the Authority, the directive requiring airport cab operators to upgrade to newer vehicle models is intended to improve reliability, comfort, safety and overall passenger satisfaction. It noted that the policy aligns with international best practices and its ongoing efforts to elevate service standards at airports nationwide.
The Authority stressed that passengers deserve access to clean, roadworthy, comfortable and professionally maintained vehicles that reflect the standards expected of a modern international airport.
On the issue of operational charges, FAAN rejected claims that the tariff review was arbitrary or excessive. It explained that the existing operational tariff of N500 had remained unchanged for more than eight years despite rising inflation, increasing maintenance expenses and higher operating costs.
FAAN stated that the revised charge of N1,500 should be viewed within the context of prevailing economic realities and the need to sustain critical airport infrastructure and services. It added that while the adjustment may present challenges for operators, the Authority remains committed to engaging stakeholders constructively.
The Authority also clarified its relationship with airport transport service providers, saying its contractual and regulatory engagements are conducted directly with registered cab companies operating within airport premises rather than associations or unions representing them.
FAAN maintained that it has not refused to engage operators and continues to operate a structured stakeholder engagement framework through which operational concerns are addressed.
Regarding the vehicle upgrade policy, the Authority disclosed that discussions on the initiative began as far back as July 2024, with operators given ample notice to prepare for compliance.
It further revealed that the original compliance deadline had been extended from January 2026 to June 2026 following requests from operators. FAAN said it is currently considering a final extension until October 2026 to allow companies additional time to meet the required standards.
The Authority, however, emphasized that the objective of the policy is not to punish operators or deny legitimate business opportunities but to ensure that airport transportation services meet acceptable quality standards.
According to FAAN, operators have already benefited from multiple extensions spanning more than two years, and no further requests for deadline extensions are expected to be entertained beyond the proposed final deadline.
Reaffirming its commitment to collaboration, the Authority acknowledged the role of airport cab operators in supporting passenger movement and the broader airport ecosystem. It called on all operators to embrace the upgrade initiative and work collectively towards providing safer, more efficient and customer-focused transportation services.
FAAN added that it will continue to pursue policies that place passengers at the centre of service delivery while ensuring that airport operations reflect the standards expected of a modern aviation sector.
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