NCAA orders airlines to enforce $10,000 currency declaration rule for inbound passengers 

By Seun Ibiyemi 

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has instructed all international airlines operating into the country to fully implement the $10,000 currency declaration requirement for passengers arriving in Nigeria.

Travellers carrying cash or Bearer Negotiable Instruments (BNI) above $10,000 must declare them on arrival. Airlines are mandated to make onboard announcements and distribute declaration forms to passengers before landing.

The directive was detailed in a statement signed by Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, and posted on the NCAA’s official X handle on Tuesday.

It reaffirms an earlier order issued on 24 April 2025 (REF: NCAA/CPD/ABV/298) following reports of incomplete compliance by some airlines.

“The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) hereby reminds all international airlines operating inbound flights to Nigeria to strictly comply with the provisions of the directive referenced above concerning the currency declaration requirements for inbound passengers.

“In line with Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) framework, in accordance with international standards and obligations, the NCAA reiterates the following directives to all international airlines: Make inflight or pre-landing announcements informing passengers of their legal obligation to declare any currency or Bearer Negotiable Instruments (BNI) exceeding $10,000 USD or its equivalent upon arrival in Nigeria,” the statement read.

The NCAA cautioned that airlines found to be in breach of the directive will be closely monitored and may face sanctions. It maintained that strict enforcement is vital to aligning with international financial regulations and reinforcing Nigeria’s anti-money laundering drive.

Airlines were further instructed to ensure flight crews actively support passenger compliance before touchdown.