The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) announced on July 17, 2026, the upcoming deployment of V-Pass, a biometric identity verification system developed with Verxid Technologies Limited. The system targets domestic air travel across Nigeria, aiming to expedite passenger processing with facial recognition technology.
Passenger Registration Using Facial Biometrics and Identity Numbers
Nigerian travelers will register for V-Pass through a one-time enrolment procedure that captures their facial biometrics alongside their National Identification Number (NIN). Foreign passengers will register using their international passports, employing Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and biometric authentication for identity verification. This dual approach assigns a secure digital identity to each traveler.
Dual Verification Process and Access Automation
The V-Pass system incorporates
a two-step verification, confirming passenger identities before entry to restricted airport zones and again during boarding. Electronic gates (E-Gates) will automate controlled access points, reducing queues and enhancing passenger flow. Post-enrolment biometric verification is designed to take under 30 seconds, while initial registration requires roughly one minute.
Data Privacy and System Security Compliance
Data privacy is a fundamental component of the V-Pass project. Passenger information will not be stored on kiosks or handheld devices, complying fully with the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR). The platform integrates a Central Management System that tracks passenger movement and generates analytics to support future technological integration and security monitoring.
Sensitisation Campaign and Digital Transformation Goals
Before
full deployment, FAAN and Verxid Technologies will conduct a nationwide sensitisation effort using television, radio, social media, airport announcements, and airline advisories to inform passengers about the V-Pass system. A live Proof of Concept demonstration and technical site assessment will also precede the official launch, which is scheduled for July 2026. This initiative is part of FAAN’s broader digital transformation strategy to enhance passenger facilitation and fortify aviation security at domestic airports.
According to a FAAN statement, “Nigerian passengers will register with their NIN and facial biometric capture, while foreign passengers will enrol using international passports through OCR and biometric
authentication. The system will check passengers before they enter restricted areas and again before boarding.” Ms Adebola, FAAN’s Director of Commercial and Business Development, reiterated that the project highlights the authority’s commitment to leveraging technology in improving passenger services and security nationwide.
