NCAA To Sanction Airlines Over Non-Compliant With Currency Declaration Directive
By Stella Enenche, Abuja
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has said it would sanction international airlines flying into the country over failure to enforce the $10,000 currency declaration rule for inbound passengers.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NCAA, Michael Achimugu, on Tuesday.
NCAA said travelers bringing in cash or Bearer Negotiable Instruments (BNI) exceeding $10,000 must declare them upon arrival, while airlines are required to make onboard announcements and distribute declaration forms.
According to the authority, it is 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 intemational 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.
” Distribute currency declaration forms onboard for passengers to complete before landing”.
The NCAA said it has received reports indicating that some airlines are yet to comply with this directive.
“Please note that the cooperation of all international airlines operating in Nigeria is critical to supporting the country’s efforts to align with global financial standards.
“Accordingly, the Authority emphasizes that full implementation of this directiveparticularly as it concerns inbound passenger deciarations—is of utmost importance. Compliance will be closely monitored, and non-compliant airlines will face appropriate sanctions”.
