Airport taxi operators across Nigeria have appealed to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) for more time to comply with the directive mandating the use of newer car models for airport transport services.
The operators are seeking a 12-month extension on the implementation of the 2012 car models requirement. They cited the harsh economic environment and rising vehicle costs as major obstacles to immediate compliance. According to them, many operators are struggling financially, making the acquisition of newer car models difficult.
Car Models Compliance Creates Concerns for Operators
Speaking on behalf of airport cab operators nationwide, Chairman of the International Terminal Zone (ITZ), Mr. Charles Odofin, said the association had formally written to FAAN’s Managing Director seeking approval for an extension.
Odofin explained that the operators fully support efforts to modernise airport transport services. However, he stressed that the timeline for implementing the approved car models should consider prevailing economic realities. He noted that many members are willing to comply but require additional time to secure funding.
The operators also expressed support for FAAN’s introduction of an electronic booking platform for airport taxi services. They described the initiative as a global best practice already adopted at major international airports.
“We support FAAN on the introduction of the e-booking app. It will be beneficial to all. Since this is what is in place in other parts of the world, ours cannot be an exception. We are ready to key into it.”
While embracing the digital platform, the operators urged FAAN to allow vehicles already certified during recent inspections to continue operating beyond the current deadline. They argued that all vehicles were cleared by FAAN inspectors in May 2026 and approved to operate until December 2026.
According to the association, granting a grace period until June 2027 would allow members enough time to upgrade to the required car models without disrupting airport transport services.
The operators disclosed that fewer than five per cent of members nationwide have acquired the specified 2012 car models. They attributed the low compliance rate to soaring vehicle prices, inflation, and limited access to affordable financing.
Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing with financial institutions to secure vehicle loans for members. The operators believe access to structured financing will accelerate compliance and ease the financial burden on drivers.
Odofin recalled a similar transition in 2007 when FAAN directed operators to replace Mercedes-Benz V-Boot vehicles with Toyota Camry 2004 models. He noted that the airport authority granted operators sufficient time to meet the requirement.
“This is not the first time FAAN is coming with this type of directive, which we complied with. The only issue now is that they want it done immediately.”
He further explained that the operators partnered with First Bank of Nigeria during the 2007 transition. Through the arrangement, members received financing and repaid the loans over a period of between 24 and 36 months.
“The bank financed the purchase of the cars and gave us between 24 and 36 months for repayment, which we did without anyone of us defaulting.”
However, Odofin noted that current lending conditions are far more challenging. High interest rates have increased borrowing costs, making it difficult for many operators to purchase the required car models immediately.
Despite the challenges, he said discussions with potential financiers remain positive. Therefore, the association believes a one-year extension will allow operators to conclude financing arrangements and implement the directive smoothly.
The operators also appealed to FAAN’s management to consider their request with understanding and compassion.
“We shall be very grateful for your listening ears to our pleas and support with co-operation and consideration for seamless implementation that will be mutually beneficial to all the parties.”
In addition, the association revealed plans to introduce electric vehicles into airport transport operations. According to the operators, discussions have already taken place with at least two companies interested in partnering on the initiative.
However, the prospective partners have requested additional time to prepare for large-scale deployment. The operators said the move aligns with efforts to modernise airport transport services while supporting cleaner and more sustainable mobility solutions.
For now, the operators remain hopeful that FAAN will grant their request, allowing a gradual transition to the new car models requirement without placing undue pressure on airport taxi operators nationwide.
