The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced the implementation of procedures for granting safe passage to personal vehicles temporarily imported into or transiting through Nigeria by international travellers.
The initiative, anchored on the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, applied to personal, non-commercial vehicles belonging to visitors entering the country for tourism, diplomatic, business, or other personal purposes. The Service said the scheme is aimed at easing cross-border movement, enhancing trade facilitation, and strengthening Nigeria’s compliance with international conventions.
Customs explained that the framework derives legal backing from Sections 142, 143, 144, and 245 of the NCS Act, 2023, as well as international instruments such as the Revised Kyoto Convention, the UN TIR Convention (1975), the Istanbul Convention (1990), and the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Residence, and Establishment. It also aligns with World Customs Organization guidelines on temporary admission and the Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) regulations.
Under the new arrangement, international travellers are required to present valid documents at points of entry, including an international passport, international driver’s licence, vehicle registration, insurance, and CPD. Upon satisfactory 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 with the approval of the relevant Customs Area Controller.
The NCS noted that vehicles admitted under the scheme are permitted to move freely within Nigeria but must not be sold, leased, transferred, modified, or used for commercial purposes. At the point of exit, travellers are expected to present the 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 for documentation and guidance.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the facilitation of legitimate travel, the Nigeria Customs Service said the initiative would strengthen cross-border cooperation while improving security and operational efficiency across the country.
