The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted $193,000 (approximately ₦289.5 billion) hidden inside a yogurt carton at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
NCS spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada confirmed the seizure in a statement issued on Friday, revealing that it took place on Thursday. According to him, the suspect arrived aboard Ethiopian Airlines Flight No. 951 from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
He explained that the interception was the result of credible intelligence and thorough baggage screening. “Acting on intelligence, customs officers carried out a detailed inspection, which led to the discovery of the hidden cash,” he stated.
Maiwada further noted that the undeclared funds violate both the Anti-Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 and the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023. These laws require travelers carrying amounts exceeding $10,000 (or its equivalent in negotiable instruments) to declare them upon arrival or departure.
The concealed money was detected using advanced scanning technology, which identified an unusual density in the suspect’s luggage. Following the seizure, the funds were formally handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and possible prosecution.
“As mandated by law, the forfeited funds have been transferred to the EFCC for necessary action,” Maiwada added.
He reaffirmed the Customs Service’s dedication to enforcing financial regulations and preventing illicit financial activities. He also urged travelers to comply with declaration requirements when transporting large sums of money across Nigeria’s borders.
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