Airport taxi operators have protested the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria’s (FAAN) directive requiring all airport cabs to be 2020 models or newer, describing the policy as unrealistic amid the country’s economic hardship.
The protest, captured in a viral video circulating on social media, showed frustrated drivers appealing to President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians to intervene before the directive takes effect. According to the operators, purchasing 2020 model vehicles—estimated to cost between ₦18 million and ₦30 million—is beyond the reach of many drivers struggling with rising operating costs and declining patronage.
Beyond the vehicle requirement, the drivers also raised concerns over FAAN’s planned technology-driven airport taxi management system, fearing it could further threaten their livelihoods. They urged the Federal Government to suspend the implementation of the policy and engage operators before enforcing new regulations.
The protest comes weeks after FAAN defended the directive, insisting that upgrading airport taxis is necessary to improve passenger safety, comfort, and service quality. The authority maintained that discussions with operators began in 2024 and that multiple extensions had already been granted, with a final compliance deadline being considered for October 2026.
While many Nigerians have sympathised with the drivers, arguing that the policy is insensitive to the current economic realities, others believe airport taxi services should meet international standards with newer, well-maintained vehicles.
