The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made a significant breakthrough at the Kano/Jigawa Area Command, seizing more than N653 million in undeclared foreign currency at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA).
The seizure was disclosed during a press conference on Tuesday, 8 July 2025, where the confiscated funds and three suspects were handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further legal action.
Comptroller Dalhatu Abubakar, the Customs Area Controller, expressed that this interception marks a crucial step in the fight against financial crimes connected to smuggling and money laundering.
The operation stemmed from credible intelligence regarding Ahmed Salisu, a Ghanaian passport holder arriving from Saudi Arabia, who failed to declare foreign currency exceeding the $10,000 threshold. A thorough search revealed concealed cash, including $420,900 and £5,825, amounting to over ₦653.9 million.
Abubakar affirmed the commitment of the Service to national security and collaboration with the EFCC and ICPC, stating, “This event highlights our proactive enforcement and our goal to deter criminal activities.”
The operation aligns with ongoing initiatives to educate stakeholders on currency declaration, with campaigns targeting various sectors throughout Kano and Jigawa.
The EFCC’s Zonal Director praised the partnership between the agencies and emphasised the case’s significance in preserving national security against cash smuggling, which supports transnational crime.
