The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has commenced the implementation of a new initiative to grant safe passage to personal vehicles temporarily imported or transiting through Nigeria by international travellers.
National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, PhD, said the programme is anchored on the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and relevant international conventions on temporary vehicle admission and transit.
He explained that the framework applies to all non-commercial vehicles belonging to international travellers visiting Nigeria for tourism, diplomatic, business, or personal purposes. He also said it is designed to facilitate cross-border movement, strengthen compliance with international obligations, and reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to trade facilitation and regional integration.
The legal backing for the initiative includes Sections 142, 143, 144, and 245 of the NCS Act, 2023, the Revised Kyoto Convention, the UN TIR Convention (1975), the Istanbul Convention (1990), the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, and WCO guidelines on Temporary Admission.
”Under the new system, travellers must present valid documents, including an international passport, international driver’s license, vehicle registration, insurance, and the Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) at the point of entry. ”
”A Temporary Vehicle Admission Permit, valid for up to 90 days, will be issued and electronically recorded. Extensions of up to 30 days may be granted by the relevant Customs Area Controller.”
”Vehicles admitted under this regime are allowed to move freely within Nigeria but cannot be sold, leased, transferred, modified, or used for commercial purposes.”
”Upon exit, travellers must present their vehicle along with the approved Temporary Admission Declaration. In the event of an accident, theft, or breakdown, the nearest Customs office must be notified immediately.”
The NCS reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability while facilitating legitimate travel, stressing that the initiative strengthens Nigeria’s cross-border cooperation and ensures compliance with international and national regulations.
