The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has directed all international airlines operating flights into the country to enforce mandatory currency declarations for passengers carrying amounts exceeding $10,000 or its equivalent.

In a statement released on Tuesday via the official X handle of its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, the authority said the move is aimed at strengthening compliance with anti-money laundering regulations and closing enforcement gaps.

The directive, formally referenced as NCAA/CPD/ABV/298 and dated April 24, 2025, specifically instructs airlines to implement two key measures:

  1. Announce onboard or prior to landing that passengers are legally required to declare any currency or bearer negotiable instruments exceeding the $10,000 threshold upon arrival in Nigeria.
  2. Distribute currency declaration forms during the flight, enabling passengers to complete the required documentation before landing.

According to the NCAA, some airlines have yet to fully comply with this directive, despite prior communication. The authority stressed that the enforcement is consistent with international best practices and essential for curbing the illicit movement of large sums of money across borders.

“This requirement is not new,” the statement noted, “but enforcement is now being strengthened to align with global financial standards and ensure Nigeria’s credibility in international financial systems.”

The NCAA warned that compliance will be closely monitored, and sanctions will be imposed on airlines that fail to implement the directive fully.

“The cooperation of all international carriers is crucial,” it added, “as this initiative supports national and international efforts to prevent money laundering, terrorism financing, and other financial crimes.”

The directive reflects Nigeria's broader push to enhance its financial transparency and regulatory enforcement in line with global anti-money laundering frameworks.