The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede has warned Bureau De Change, BDC, Operators and other business stakeholders across the country against illegal cash smuggling
He gave this charge in Kano on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at a joint sensitization program organized by the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, and the EFCC to educate participants on legal protocols for cash movement across Nigeria borders.
Under the theme “Illegal Cash Movement Through Nigerian Airports: Consequences, Legal Frameworks, and EFCC’s Enforcement Role,” Olukoyede, who spoke through the Kano Zonal Director of the EFCC, Commander of the EFCC, CE Ibrahim Shazali, underscored the severe repercussions of non-compliance with Nigeria’s financial regulations. He emphasized that illicit cash movement undermines economic stability and fuels crimes such as money laundering, terrorism financing and corruption.
Olukoyede also outlined the legal frameworks governing cash movements, including the EFCC Act (2004), Money Laundering ( Prevention and Prohibition Act) 2022 and Central Bank of Nigeria guidelines. He reiterated that individuals transporting cash exceeding $10,000 (or its equivalent) must declare it to the Nigeria Customs Service, as failure to do so constitutes a criminal offense.
“Nigeria, as a signatory to international anti-money laundering conventions, has established strict laws to regulate the movement of cash in and out of the country. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022, and the EFCC Establishment Act provide clear guidelines on cash declarations and penalties for violations”.
“Despite these laws, many travelers, whether businessmen, pilgrims, or tourists, still engage in illegal cash movements, either out of ignorance or deliberate attempts to evade financial regulations. Today, we will clarify the legal requirements, reporting obligations, and consequences of non-compliance”.
“The consequences of illegal cash trafficking are grave—ranging from imprisonment, hefty fines, to forfeiture of assets. The EFCC, in collaboration with sister agencies, remains resolute in prosecuting offenders and safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s financial system,” he said.
Section 3(3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act declares cash transportation above $10,000 (or equivalent) without declaration illegal and Section 18 of the same Act mandates BDCs to report suspicious transactions to the NFIU (Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit).
The sensitization program highlighted the inter-agency commitment to enforcing compliance. Representatives from the NCS and ICPC reinforced the importance of adhering to anti-corruption laws and cross-border financial regulations. Stakeholders, including BDC operators, were urged to uphold ethical practices and report suspicious activities.
The EFCC’s boss concluded by calling on all stakeholders for their support and collective vigilance against illicit financial flows in Nigeria. “We urge all stakeholders to prioritize national interest over personal gain. Compliance is not optional; it is a legal and patriotic obligation. Together, we can curb illicit financial flows and promote economic security”, he said.
