The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) says it is considering extending its airport taxi upgrade deadline to October.
This is contained in a statement on Monday in Lagos by Mr Henry Agbebire, FAAN Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection.
Agbebire said the possible extension followed concerns raised by the Nigeria Union of Private Cab Operators.
He said the authority’s vehicle upgrade policy aimed to improve service standards at Nigerian airports.
“The policy aligns with international best practices and seeks to elevate service quality,” Agbebire said.
He added that airport taxi users deserved clean, safe, comfortable and professionally maintained vehicles.
The director dismissed claims that FAAN had failed to engage airport cab operators on the policy.
He said the authority maintained regular discussions with licensed transport providers operating within airport premises.
Agbebire explained that FAAN’s regulatory relationship was with registered cab companies, not associations or unions.
“Engagements on operational matters are conducted directly with affected corporate entities,” he said.
He stressed that FAAN remained open to constructive dialogue with transport operators.
The director said discussions on the upgrade policy began in July 2024, giving operators time to comply.
He noted that the original deadline was extended to January 2026 and later June 2026.
According to him, the extensions considered economic realities and provided operators sufficient preparation time.
Agbebire said the policy was not designed to punish operators or deny them business opportunities.
“Operators have been afforded ample opportunity to prepare for compliance,” he stated.
He warned that further extensions beyond the proposed final deadline might not be granted.
The FAAN official acknowledged the role of airport cab operators in passenger movement.
He urged operators to embrace the initiative and support improved transport services.
Agbebire said FAAN remained committed to passenger-focused policies across the aviation sector. (NAN)
