The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a significant milestone in its efforts to strengthen border controls and enhance financial transparency. With the deployment of its Electronic Currency Declaration Form (e-CDF) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, the service has recorded a total of 69 currency declarations. This development is part of the NCS’s ongoing digital transformation and modernization initiatives aimed at preventing money laundering and promoting accountable cross-border transactions.
According to Abdullahi Maiwada, the spokesman for the NCS, the pilot phase of the e-CDF system has been successful, with 51 outbound declarations valued at $1,200,281.22 and 18 inbound declarations valued at $177,786.88. The implementation of the pilot scheme started on April 9 without any issues, demonstrating the effectiveness of the system in digitally capturing currency declarations.
The e-CDF platform was developed to align with international best practices in anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-financing of terrorism (CFT) protocols. The form provides real-time data that supports intelligence gathering and inter-agency cooperation, making it a valuable tool in the fight against financial crimes.
Maiwada stated that the NCS is committed to leveraging technology to enhance its operations and ensure the integrity of Nigeria’s borders. Under the leadership of Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi, the service is determined to improve compliance, facilitate legitimate travel and trade, and ensure the integrity of Nigeria’s borders.
The success of the pilot phase has paved the way for the deployment of the e-CDF system at other international airports and border posts across the country. This move is expected to further strengthen Nigeria’s border controls and promote transparency in financial transactions. As the NCS continues to invest in digital solutions, it is clear that the service is committed to staying ahead of the curve in the fight against financial crimes and promoting a more secure and efficient border control system.
