Nigeria's airport authority has given cab operators a firm deadline. All taxi fleets must be upgraded to newer models by October 2026 or face removal from airport operations.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria says the order is non-negotiable. It's part of efforts to bring ground transportation in line with international standards.
FAAN argues that airports serve as Nigeria's front door to the world. First impressions matter for investors and international travelers, officials insist.
The directive has sparked tension with private cab operators. The Association of Private Cab Operators recently raised concerns about the vehicle standardization rules.
Beyond the fleet upgrade, operators are also grappling with new fares. Ground transportation tariffs jumped from N500 to N1,500 per ride.
FAAN defended the fare increase in a recent statement. The authority had kept prices at N500 for eight consecutive years despite inflation.
During that period, Nigeria faced severe economic pressures. Vehicle maintenance costs soared, and the general cost of business operations climbed sharply.
Airport officials say the new N1,500 rate reflects current economic reality. It ensures cab operators can sustain their businesses while maintaining service quality.
Some operators accused FAAN of refusing to engage with them. The authority pushed back against this claim Tuesday.
According to FAAN, it engages only with registered corporate cab companies. Third-party trade associations and unions don't represent legitimate contractual interests, the regulator noted.
Critics also claimed the upgrade timeline was abrupt and unreasonable. FAAN disputed that characterization entirely.
Management revealed it has already granted multiple extensions over two years. The policy was first announced in July 2024.
The original deadline was pushed from January to June 2026. Another extension to October 2026 is currently under consideration.
FAAN emphasized what it sees as reasonable accommodation. Multiple windows for compliance have been provided to help operators transition smoothly.
But patience is wearing thin at the authority. Officials made clear that October 2026 represents the absolute final deadline.
No further extensions will be granted after that date. Operators who haven't upgraded their vehicles by then will lose airport access.
FAAN says the crackdown targets genuinely dilapidated vehicles. Un-airconditioned, poorly maintained taxis damage Nigeria's image abroad, officials argue.
Clean, modern, comfortable cabs are what passengers deserve. That's the standard FAAN intends to enforce across all airport terminals.
The authority stressed it isn't trying to destroy cab businesses. Rather, it wants to establish a culture of professionalism and service excellence.
Operators now face a choice with real consequences. Modernize the fleet or lose their livelihoods at Nigeria's airports.
