The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has instructed all international airlines operating in the country to strictly enforce the $10,000 currency declaration requirement for inbound passengers.

Passengers arriving with cash or Bearer Negotiable Instruments (BNI) exceeding $10,000 are mandated to declare them upon entry. Airlines must also announce this requirement during flights and distribute the necessary declaration forms onboard.

This directive was issued in a statement by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu and shared via the NCAA’s official X account on Tuesday.

The directive reiterates an earlier instruction issued on April 24, 2025 (REF: NCAA/CPD/ABV/298), following reports of non-compliance by certain airlines.

“The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) hereby reminds all international airlines operating inbound flights to Nigeria to strictly comply with the provisions of the directive referenced above concerning the currency declaration requirements for inbound passengers.

“In line with Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) framework, in accordance with international standards and obligations, the NCAA reiterates the following directives to all international airlines:

“1. Make inflight or pre-landing announcements informing passengers of their legal obligation to declare any currency or Bearer Negotiable Instruments (BNI) exceeding $10,000 USD or its equivalent upon arrival in Nigeria,” the statement read in part.

The NCAA warned that non-compliant airlines will be closely monitored and may face sanctions.

It emphasized that strict enforcement is essential to aligning with international financial standards and strengthening Nigeria’s anti-money laundering efforts.

Airlines were also urged to ensure that flight crews assist in securing passenger compliance before landing.

This renewed directive from the NCAA follows closely on the heels of a recent conviction secured by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). A passenger, Salisu Ahmad, was sentenced and ordered to forfeit undeclared foreign currencies worth over ₦653 million after being intercepted at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport on July 7, 2025.

Ahmad was caught during a routine check with concealed cash, including $420,900, £5,825, and over CFA 4 million.

He pleaded guilty to a one-count charge under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and was convicted by the Federal High Court in Kano.