Customs Intercepts $578,000 in Undeclared Cash at Lagos Airport

 On March 21, 2025, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos intercepted $578,000 in undeclared cash from an inbound passenger arriving from South Africa. ​

The Customs Area Controller at MMIA, John Harrison, disclosed that the suspect attempted to falsely declare the funds, violating Nigeria’s financial regulations that mandate the declaration of cash or negotiable instruments exceeding the approved threshold upon entry or exit from the country. The undeclared cash was discovered during a routine baggage inspection. ​

Under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022 and the Foreign Exchange (Monitoring and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act of 1995, individuals are required to declare any cash or negotiable instruments exceeding $10,000 when entering or leaving Nigeria. Failure to comply with these regulations constitutes a violation of Nigerian law and attracts severe penalties, including forfeiture of the undeclared funds and possible prosecution. ​

This incident follows a similar case at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, where customs officials intercepted $1,154,900 and 135,900 Saudi Riyals concealed within packs of palm-date fruit from an inbound passenger arriving from Saudi Arabia. The suspect and the seized foreign currency were handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and necessary legal action. ​

The NCS has reiterated its commitment to enforcing financial regulations and combating illicit financial flows. Travellers are advised to adhere strictly to currency declaration requirements to avoid legal consequences. The service continues to work closely with other law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance and safeguard Nigeria’s financial system. ​