The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation following the seizure of a large sum of undeclared foreign currency at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.
The arrest occurred on Monday, July 7, 2025, during a routine baggage screening when a man identified as Ahmad Salisu was found with undeclared foreign currencies concealed in a polythene bag inside his luggage.
Authorities recovered $420,900, £5,825, 3,946,500 West African CFA francs, and 224,000 Cameroonian CFA francs. Salisu reportedly claimed he was transporting the money on behalf of his brother, Auwal Ahmad, who is currently in Saudi Arabia.
According to a joint briefing by the EFCC and Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the cash was allegedly intended for two individuals—Yusuf Adamu and Abdulhamid Rabiu—who were arrested at the airport after arriving to receive the funds.
All three suspects and the seized cash have been handed over to the EFCC for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Speaking at a press conference in Kano, EFCC Zonal Director Commander Ibrahim Shazali said the case highlights the agency’s continued crackdown on illicit financial flows.
“This case underscores our zero-tolerance policy for illegal cross-border cash movement. Our surveillance systems are effective, and we are committed to prosecuting offenders,” Shazali said.
Customs Area Comptroller Dalhatu Abubakar stressed the importance of currency declaration in combating financial crimes, including money laundering and terrorism financing.
“Funds like these, if not intercepted, could be funneled into criminal networks. Securing our financial borders is a national security priority,” he added.
The EFCC stated that the suspects would be charged once the investigation is concluded.
