The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) says it is considering what it describes as a final extension of the deadline for airport cab operators to upgrade their vehicles, setting a possible new compliance date of October 2026.
The authority made this known in a public notice issued on June 22, 2026, noting that the move is aimed at ensuring improved passenger experience across airports in Nigeria.
FAAN said operators have already been given multiple extensions over more than two years and should not expect any further postponement beyond the proposed October 2026 deadline.
It also referenced concerns raised by members of the Association of Private Cab Operators regarding vehicle upgrade requirements and revised operational charges at airports nationwide.
The authority explained that the upgrade policy is part of broader reforms designed to improve safety, comfort, reliability, and overall passenger satisfaction, adding that airport transport services are often travellers’ first and last point of contact with the country.
FAAN noted that discussions around the policy began in July 2024 when operators were first informed of the requirements. It added that deadlines were initially set for January 2026 and later extended to June 2026 following stakeholder appeals and economic considerations.
The agency said it is now reviewing what may be the final extension to allow operators complete compliance.
“In further demonstration of goodwill and consideration, FAAN is currently considering a final extension of the compliance deadline until October 2026. This additional period is expected to provide adequate opportunity for operators to align with the required standards,” the statement said.
FAAN stressed that the policy is not intended to penalise operators but to raise service standards, adding that sufficient time has already been provided for compliance.
It also defended the increase in operational tariffs for airport cab operators, saying the adjustment reflects current economic realities rather than an arbitrary review.
According to the authority, the previous charge of N500 had remained unchanged for over eight years despite inflation, rising maintenance costs, and increased operational expenses across the sector.
It added that the revised tariff is necessary to support airport infrastructure and sustain efficient service delivery.
“The adjustment from N500 to N1,500 should therefore be viewed within the context of prevailing economic realities and the need to sustain critical airport infrastructure and services,” the authority stated.
FAAN also dismissed claims that it failed to engage stakeholders, insisting it maintains regular consultation with licensed airport transport operators through established engagement structures.
It clarified that its regulatory dealings are with registered cab companies operating within airport premises rather than unions or associations.
The directive forms part of ongoing reforms aimed at aligning Nigeria’s airport operations with global standards and improving service delivery in the aviation sector.