The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has commenced an investigation into a man identified as Haruna Yusuf following the seizure of large amounts of undeclared foreign currencies at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano State.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) intercepted the foreign currencies in two separate incidents recorded between August 8 and August 12, 2026. The recovered funds comprised $73,300, £15,957 and 827,800 Saudi Riyals.
According to the authorities, the first interception occurred on August 8 when Customs officers discovered 827,800 Saudi Riyals and $53,300 concealed inside footwear found in an unaccompanied luggage associated with a Saudi Air flight.
A second seizure was made on August 12 involving luggage belonging to Haruna Yusuf, who reportedly arrived at the airport aboard Ethiopian Airlines flight ET941.
During secondary screening, Customs officers allegedly discovered $20,000 and £15,957 concealed inside sportswear shoes in Yusuf’s luggage.
Following the discovery, the Nigeria Customs Service handed Yusuf and the recovered foreign currencies over to the EFCC Kano Zonal Directorate for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The EFCC explained that the movement of substantial amounts of foreign currency without the required declaration constitutes a violation of Nigeria’s Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
The anti-graft agency further clarified that declaring foreign currency at the point of entry or exit does not, in itself, attract a penalty. However, failure to declare such funds, particularly where questions arise concerning their source or purpose, may trigger further investigation.
The EFCC said its investigation would establish the circumstances surrounding the currencies, including their source and intended use. The commission also reaffirmed its commitment to handling the case in accordance with the provisions of Nigerian law.
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The development highlights the increasing scrutiny of large foreign-currency movements through Nigeria’s international airports as relevant authorities intensify efforts to prevent money laundering and other financial crimes.
