The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has unveiled a new framework designed to simplify procedures for international travellers temporarily bringing personal vehicles into Nigeria or transiting through the country.
In a statement issued on Thursday, NCS spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada said the initiative is anchored on the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and supported by relevant international conventions governing the temporary admission and transit of vehicles.
According to Maiwada, the framework applies to all personal, non-commercial vehicles owned by international visitors entering Nigeria for tourism, diplomatic, business, or personal reasons.
He explained that the policy is aimed at easing cross-border movement, strengthening Nigeria’s compliance with international obligations, and reinforcing the country’s commitment to trade facilitation and regional integration.
The new regime draws its legal authority from Sections 142, 143, 144, and 245 of the NCS Act, 2023, as well as international instruments including the Revised Kyoto Convention, the UN TIR Convention (1975), the Istanbul Convention (1990), and the ECOWAS Protocol on the Free Movement of Persons, Residence and Establishment. It also aligns with World Customs Organisation guidelines on temporary admission and the Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) system.
Under the framework, travellers must present valid documentation at the point of entry, including an international passport, international driver’s licence, vehicle registration papers, insurance, and a CPD. Following inspection and verification, a Temporary Vehicle Admission Permit valid for up to 90 days will be issued and electronically recorded. An extension of up to 30 days may be granted, subject to approval by the relevant Customs Area Controller.
Vehicles admitted under the scheme may move freely within Nigeria but must not be sold, leased, transferred, modified, or used for commercial purposes.
Travellers are also required to present the vehicle and temporary admission documents upon exit, and to notify Customs immediately in the event of an accident, theft, or mechanical breakdown.