The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will begin rolling out the V-Pass biometric facial recognition system across domestic airports starting July 2026. The system aims to improve security and expedite passenger processing by replacing manual identity checks with automated facial recognition technology for domestic air travel.
Passenger Enrollment and Verification Process
Nigerian passengers will undergo a one-time enrolment involving their National Identification Number (NIN) and facial biometric capture to create a secure digital identity. Foreign passengers will register using their international passports, which will be scanned via optical character recognition (OCR) and combined with biometric authentication. Verification will occur twice: first before entry into
restricted airport areas and again prior to boarding flights to prevent identity fraud and unauthorized access.
Technology Features and Operational Details
Passengers will access the V-Pass system via self-service kiosks or with assistance from FAAN personnel during the introduction phase. Electronic Gates (E-Gates) will automate authorized entry points, reducing queues and enhancing passenger flow. Post-enrolment biometric verification is expected to take under 30 seconds, while initial registration should require about one minute. The system will also provide airlines with secure digital access to flight schedules, passenger manifests, and boarding statistics through an integrated platform.
FAAN will utilize a Central Management System to monitor passenger movements,
generate operational analytics, and enable future integration with other airport systems.
Data Protection and Public Awareness
The V-Pass system complies with the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR), ensuring passenger data privacy. Collected biometric and identity data will not be stored on kiosks or portable devices to mitigate security risks. FAAN and its development partner, M/S Verxid Technologies Limited, plan a nationwide public sensitization campaign through television, radio, social media, airport announcements, and airline advisories to educate passengers about the system. Prior to full deployment, a live Proof of Concept demonstration and technical site assessments will be conducted.
FAAN’s Digital Transformation and Security Commitment
FAAN Director of Commercial and Business Development, Ms
Adebola, emphasized that the V-Pass rollout reflects FAAN’s dedication to leveraging technology to enhance passenger facilitation and aviation security at domestic airports. The adoption of facial biometric verification aligns with FAAN’s broader digital transformation agenda aimed at creating smarter and safer airport environments for domestic travelers.
