The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a total of $1,154,900 (One Million, One Hundred and Fifty-Four Thousand, Nine Hundred US Dollars) and SR135,900 (One Hundred and Thirty-Five Thousand, Nine Hundred Saudi Riyals) in undeclared foreign currency at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA).
The seized money was discovered during a routine baggage check on an inbound passenger, Hauwa Ibrahim Abdullahi, who arrived aboard Saudi Airline Flight No. SV401 from Saudi Arabia.
According to the NCS, the foreign currency was concealed within palm-date fruit packs, commonly known as Dabino, in an attempt to evade detection.
Confirming the development, the National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, stated that the seizure was in line with the agency’s commitment to enforcing financial regulations and curbing illicit financial transactions across Nigeria’s borders.
“The suspect and the seized foreign currency have been handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and necessary legal action,” Maiwada noted in a statement.
Following due legal proceedings, the court found the suspect guilty and ordered the forfeiture of the undeclared funds to the Federal Government, in accordance with the provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022.
The Nigeria Customs Service has further reiterated the importance of complying with financial regulations, particularly the legal requirement for travelers to declare cash or negotiable instruments exceeding the approved threshold when entering or leaving the country. The agency warned that failure to adhere to these laws constitutes a violation of Nigerian financial statutes, which could attract severe legal consequences.
According to Maidawa, Under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the NCS has intensified its enforcement measures to combat smuggling, illicit financial transactions, and other trans-border crimes. The recent seizure, according to the agency, underscores its unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s economy and ensuring compliance with financial laws.
He said, “Under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, the NCS remains resolute in its enforcement efforts to combat smuggling, illicit financial transactions, and other trans-border crimes. This latest seizure highlights the Service’s unwavering dedication to protecting the nation’s economic interests and ensuring compliance with financial regulations.”
The NCS further emphasized its commitment to working with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to enhance border security and promote lawful financial practices. Travelers and financial operators have been advised to strictly adhere to regulatory requirements to avoid legal repercussions.
“The NCS will continue to collaborate with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to strengthen border security, enhance compliance with financial laws, and safeguard Nigeria’s economy. Travelers and stakeholders in the financial sector are advised to remain vigilant and always adhere to lawful financial practices”, the statement noted.
