The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched the pilot phase of its Electronic Currency Declaration Form (e-CDF) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, marking a significant step in its ongoing efforts to modernize and strengthen border controls.
The pilot, which began on April 9, 2025, has been executed without any issues, demonstrating the system’s capability to handle the digital capture of both inbound and outbound currency declarations. This digital transformation is aimed at enhancing the efficiency, security, and accountability of currency declarations for cross-border travellers.
Throughout the pilot phase, the e-CDF system recorded a total of 69 currency declaration transactions. Of these, 51 were outbound declarations, amounting to $1,200,281.22, while 18 inbound declarations were made, totaling $177,786.88. These figures highlight the platform’s effectiveness in accurately recording and processing currency movements at the airport.
The e-CDF system has been designed to comply with international best practices in anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-financing of terrorism (CFT). It facilitates real-time data capture, supporting intelligence gathering and enhancing inter-agency cooperation, which is crucial in addressing illicit financial activities.
Speaking on the development, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi , emphasized that the NCS is committed to leveraging technology to improve compliance, facilitate legitimate trade, and ensure the integrity of Nigeria’s borders. The NCS’s efforts aligned with global standards and reinforce its role in safeguarding the country’s economy and security.
Following the positive results from the pilot phase, plans are underway to extend the deployment of the e-CDF system to other international airports and border posts across Nigeria, further strengthening the country’s border management capabilities.
