The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is set to launch V-Pass, a biometric identification system aimed at streamlining passenger processing and increasing safety at domestic airports. Henry Agbebire, the authority’s director of public affairs, stated that this initiative is being executed alongside Verxid Technologies Limited.
The system utilizes facial recognition to confirm passenger identities, lessening the need for traditional physical ID cards. Domestic travelers will register via their National Identification Number (NIN), whereas international passengers will utilize their passports. Following a single registration, individuals can verify their identity at security checkpoints and boarding gates in under 30 seconds.
To assist with this change, FAAN will deploy electronic gates, self-service kiosks, and specialized staff. This measure is intended to curb identity fraud, prevent unauthorized access, and shorten wait times. Agbebire emphasized that the project adheres to the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation, ensuring that personal data remains secure and is not kept on individual devices.
A nationwide awareness campaign will precede the official launch, utilizing various media outlets to inform the public. This rollout forms part of a broader strategy by FAAN to modernize airport infrastructure through enhanced technology and data management.
