The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has increased the airport taxi tariff from ₦500 to ₦1,500 and is enforcing a vehicle upgrade rule requiring all airport cabs to be manufactured from 2012 onward, with a final compliance deadline set for October 2026. The move has sparked pushback from airport cab operators under the Nigeria Union of Private Cab Operators (NUPCO), who had threatened to suspend services at Lagos and Abuja international airports from July 1 over the policies.
FAAN defends tariff hike and vehicle standards
FAAN defended the changes in a statement on Monday, saying the measures are necessary to improve passenger experience and maintain service quality. The authority noted that the previous ₦500 charge had remained unchanged for more than eight years despite rising inflation, increased operational costs, and the need to maintain airport infrastructure. "The adjustment from ₦500 to ₦1,500 should therefore be viewed within the context of prevailing economic realities and the need to sustain critical airport infrastructure and services," FAAN said.
On the vehicle upgrade policy, FAAN stated that all operating airport cabs must be manufactured from 2012 onward to ensure passenger safety and comfort. "Passengers who utilise airport taxi services deserve clean, roadworthy, comfortable, and professionally maintained vehicles that reflect the premium environment expected of a modern international airport," the authority added.
Timeline of extensions and final October deadline
FAAN said operators were first informed about the vehicle requirement in July 2024 and have since received multiple extensions. The original compliance deadline was moved to January 2026 after operators' requests, then extended to June 2026. FAAN is now considering a final extension until October 2026. "These extensions were approved in recognition of the prevailing economic circumstances and to provide operators with sufficient time to comply with the requirements," the statement said.
The authority emphasised that no further extensions would be granted beyond October 2026. "It must, however, be emphasised that the objective of the policy is not to punish operators or deprive any one of legitimate business opportunities. Rather, it is to ensure that airport transportation services meet the quality standards expected by the travelling public," FAAN said.
Operators' concerns and engagement
NUPCO had criticised the policies, particularly the 2012 vehicle cutoff rule, citing high costs and insufficient time to comply. FAAN rejected claims that it ignored operators, stating that it regularly engages licensed transport service providers through established channels. The agency clarified that its official relationship is with registered cab companies, not necessarily with associations or unions. Discussions on regulatory matters are conducted directly with the licensed companies.
The disagreement highlights broader challenges facing transport operators in Nigeria, including rising vehicle costs, inflation, and foreign exchange pressures, while regulators push for improved service standards.
