The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a strong directive to all international airlines operating in the country, mandating strict compliance with currency declaration protocols. The authority emphasized that all inbound passengers must declare any cash or Bearer Negotiable Instruments (BNIs) exceeding $10,000 or its equivalent upon arrival in Nigeria.
In a statement released by the Director of Public Affairs, Michael Achimugu, the NCAA warned that failure by airlines to inform passengers of this requirement could attract serious sanctions. Airlines are now obligated to announce the declaration rule during flights and distribute currency declaration forms to passengers before arrival.
“We are reiterating that all foreign airlines must ensure that passengers are informed either during pre-landing announcements or in-flight that they are required to declare any currency or BNI exceeding the threshold of $10,000,” Achimugu said.
The directive aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) framework, in accordance with international best practices. The NCAA stressed that the enforcement of this rule is essential to curbing illicit financial flows and enhancing national security.
This renewed emphasis comes amid concerns that some international airlines are not complying with the regulation, putting both the airlines and passengers at risk of legal consequences.
“Non-compliance will attract regulatory sanctions. We expect full cooperation from all airline operators serving Nigerian airports,” the statement added.
Passengers are advised to accurately declare funds exceeding the stipulated limit using the forms provided onboard or at designated points upon entry into Nigeria.
Key Points:
All inbound passengers carrying more than $10,000 (or equivalent) must declare the amount upon arrival.
Airlines must announce this rule and distribute declaration forms before landing.
The directive aims to strengthen financial transparency and align with global AML/CFT standards.
Non-compliance by airlines may lead to sanctions from the NCAA.
The NCAA has urged travelers to comply with the directive and advised airlines to treat this requirement as a matter of urgent priority.
