The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has intercepted a bag containing 7,000,000 CFA (approximately ₦17 million or $11,000) at the outward baggage hall of the border.
Addressing journalists at Idiroko on Tuesday, 25 March 2025, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Muhammad Shuaibu, disclosed that the interception took place on 20 March 2025 during a routine search of passengers’ luggage bound for the Republic of Benin.
Shuaibu explained that the operation was in line with Sections 4(e) and (f) of the NCS Act 2023, which mandates the suppression of smuggling and enforcement of border regulations.
He emphasized that while travellers are allowed to carry cash, amounts exceeding $10,000 must be declared in compliance with the Anti-Money Laundering Act 2022 and the Foreign Exchange Act 1995.
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“As a travelling passenger, there are privileges you enjoy, but you must declare your currency. Refusal to do so is tantamount to money laundering,” he stated.
Although no arrests were made, the Area Controller reiterated the command’s commitment to enforcing federal fiscal policies and curbing smuggling activities.
The seized funds have been handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation.
Receiving the money, the EFCC Head of Investigation, Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, Assistant Commander Moses Oguzi, commended the Customs Service for its vigilance in securing Nigeria’s borders.
“This interception is a testament to the importance of interagency collaboration in our fight against corruption, money laundering, and illicit financial flows across our borders. A thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the source and intent of these funds,” he stated.
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