NCAA Orders Airlines to Enforce $10,000 Declaration Rule for Inbound Passengers

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a firm directive to all international airlines operating in the country, ordering them to enforce the mandatory currency declaration for all inbound passengers carrying over $10,000.

In a circular dated April 24, 2025, the NCAA expressed concern over gaps in compliance with existing financial disclosure regulations. The move, according to NCAA spokesperson Michael Achimugu, is part of Nigeria’s broader effort to combat money laundering and stay aligned with global financial standards.

“All airlines are now required to announce either inflight or before landing that passengers must declare any cash or negotiable instruments exceeding $10,000 or its equivalent,” Achimugu stated in a press release on Tuesday.

The directive also instructs airlines to provide currency declaration forms onboard for passengers to fill out prior to arrival. Despite previous reminders, Achimugu noted that some carriers have not implemented the requirement.

The NCAA warned that it will closely monitor compliance, adding that any airline found ignoring the directive will face appropriate sanctions. The authority emphasized that airline cooperation is essential in supporting Nigeria’s commitment to international financial transparency.