Customs Officials at MMIA Arrest Passenger with Undeclared Cash

Officials from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) have arrested a passenger attempting to travel with $59,000 in undeclared cash. The individual has been handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and prosecution.

During a press briefing on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, Customs Area Controller Comptroller Effiong Harrison shared that the arrest took place on Monday evening, August 11, 2025. The passenger, who was booked on an Emirates Airlines flight to Dubai, declared $10,000 at a Customs checkpoint. However, upon inspection, officers discovered an additional $49,000 concealed in his belongings.

Comptroller Harrison explained that this act violates the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act of 2022 and Section 50 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act of 2023. These regulations require travellers to declare cash or equivalent instruments exceeding $10,000 when entering or exiting the country.

“Despite our ongoing public awareness efforts and repeated announcements at the airport, some passengers still choose to disregard the law. The Comptroller General of Customs has instructed us to remain vigilant and prevent money laundering activities at this airport. Our officers are always trained, equipped, and available to enforce compliance,” Harrison stated.

The suspect, a Nigerian national, along with the seized funds, travel documents, and other relevant evidence, has been handed over to the EFCC.

Ahmed Gali, Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC’s Lagos Zonal Command, praised the NCS for its vigilance and inter-agency cooperation.

“This partnership continues to yield positive results for the nation. We will thoroughly investigate this matter, ensure justice is served, and use this case as a warning to others who might consider similar offences,” Gali said.

Both agencies emphasised their commitment to educating the public about currency declaration laws and warned that any violations would result in strict legal consequences.