By Parrot Newspaper 
Customs Seizes $1.1M, SR135,900 at Kano Airport
Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a significant sum of undeclared foreign currency at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano. The seizure includes $1.154 million and 135,900 Saudi Riyals, discovered concealed within packages of palm-date fruit (Dabino).
According to a statement released on Thursday by the Customs National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, the operation was carried out during a routine baggage check on an inbound passenger, Hauwa Ibrahim Abdullahi, who arrived from Saudi Arabia on Saudi Airline Flight No. SV401.
Customs’ Commitment to Financial Regulation
Maiwada emphasized that the interception is part of the NCS’s efforts to enforce Nigeria’s financial regulations and curb illicit financial flows across the country’s borders.
He stated that in line with due process, the suspect and the seized currency have been handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and prosecution. Following legal proceedings, the court convicted the suspect and ordered the forfeiture of the undeclared funds to the Federal Government, citing the provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022.
Strict Compliance With Financial Laws
The NCS spokesperson reiterated that all travelers must comply with Nigeria’s currency declaration regulations when entering or exiting the country. Under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022 and the Foreign Exchange (Monitoring and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act of 1995, individuals carrying cash or negotiable instruments above the approved limit must declare them to customs authorities.
Failure to comply, he warned, constitutes a serious violation of Nigerian law and carries severe penalties. He urged the public to abide by these financial guidelines to avoid legal consequences.
Customs’ Fight Against Financial Crimes
The Customs leadership under Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi remains committed to tackling smuggling, financial crimes, and other border-related offenses. Maiwada emphasized that this latest seizure underscores the agency’s resolve to safeguard Nigeria’s economy and enforce financial laws.
“We will continue working with relevant agencies and stakeholders to enhance border security, ensure compliance with financial regulations, and protect the nation’s economic interests,” he assured.
He further advised travelers and financial stakeholders to remain vigilant and adhere strictly to lawful financial practices to avoid penalties.
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