The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has directed all international airlines operating in the country to notify passengers of the requirement to declare any funds exceeding $10,000 upon arrival.
In a statement dated July 21 and signed by Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s director of public affairs and consumer protection, the authority said the directive aligns with Nigeria’s continued efforts to strengthen its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing framework.
“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,” the statement reads.
“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.
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“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.
“Distribute currency declaration forms onboard for passengers to complete before landing. The NCAA has received reports indicating that some airlines are yet to comply with this directive.”
Achimugu noted that the cooperation of all international airlines operating in Nigeria is critical to supporting the country’s efforts to align with global financial standards.
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“Accordingly, the Authority emphasizes that full implementation of this directive – particularly as it concerns inbound passenger declarations – is of utmost importance,” he said.
The director added that compliance will be closely monitored, adding that non-compliant airlines will face appropriate sanctions.
