In a decisive move to boost Nigeria’s anti-money laundering and border security efforts, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has held a sensitisation session with international airline operators at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The engagement, which took place on July 5, 2025, aimed to deepen collaboration with airlines on enforcing the country’s currency declaration laws. It focused on the critical role airline personnel play in informing passengers about the legal requirement to declare cash or negotiable instruments exceeding $10,000 or its equivalent when entering or leaving Nigeria.
Led by the Assistant Comptroller of Customs, Salihu Mas’ud, who heads the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Unit, the session emphasised the importance of preventive measures and compliance from the aviation sector.
“We have gone around and ensured that critical systems are in place. There are designated currency declaration posts and search rooms for secondary checks. Public announcements are also being made at the airport, and airlines have committed to reinforcing these messages during flights,” Mas’ud said.
He added that Customs expects improved compliance, which will enhance enforcement efforts and allow for the timely identification of violators for investigation and prosecution.
The meeting also highlighted the requirement for airlines to submit electronic passenger manifests (e-Manifests) prior to landing. These manifests must include full passenger details such as names, countries of origin and destination, and flight numbers, enabling Customs to conduct targeted risk assessments and enhance surveillance at entry and exit points.
Customs officials warned that failure to declare excess currency is a serious offense under Nigeria’s anti-money laundering laws, potentially leading to the seizure of funds, criminal investigation, and prosecution.
Beyond currency declaration, the exercise underscored the growing need for inter-agency collaboration to tackle terrorism financing, smuggling, and other transnational crimes.
The Nigeria Customs Service reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders through sustained partnerships with airlines, airport authorities, and security agencies. It described the sensitisation as part of ongoing efforts to build a secure, compliant, and transparent travel environment in line with global best practices.
@ The Ameh News: All Rights Reserved
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