NCAA Warns Int’l Airlines to Comply with Currency Declaration Rules for Inbound Passengers
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a stern reminder to all international airlines operating inbound flights to Nigeria, urging strict compliance with the country’s currency declaration regulations.
This directive, referenced as NCAA/CPD/ABV/298 and dated 24 April 2025, aims to bolster Nigeria’s anti-money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) framework in line with global financial standards.
In a press release signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr Michael Achimugu, the Authority reiterated that all international carriers must inform passengers of their legal obligation to declare any currency or Bearer Negotiable Instruments (BNI) exceeding $10,000 or its equivalent upon arrival in Nigeria.
The NCAA outlined two key compliance measures that airlines are expected to implement immediately:
Airlines must notify inbound passengers during flight or prior to landing about the requirement to declare cash or monetary instruments that exceed the stipulated threshold. This is to ensure that all travellers are aware of their legal responsibilities before disembarking.
The Authority mandated that currency declaration forms be made available to passengers before landing. According to the NCAA, reports have surfaced indicating that certain airlines have failed to adhere to this requirement, prompting the need for renewed emphasis and monitoring.
“The cooperation of international airlines is essential to support the country’s efforts to align with global financial standards,” the statement read. “Accordingly, the Authority emphasises that full implementation of this directive – particularly as it concerns inbound passenger declarations – is of utmost importance.”
The NCAA has made it clear that compliance will be rigorously monitored, and any airline found in breach of the directive will face appropriate sanctions.
This latest development underscores Nigeria’s commitment to international financial security standards and reflects its determination to curb illicit financial flows through air travel.
