Lagos: The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has initiated procedures for granting safe passage to personal vehicles temporarily imported or transiting through Nigeria by international travelers. NCS’s Comptroller-General, Bashir Adeniyi, announced this development in a statement released by the service’s spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, on all its verified social media platforms.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the initiative aligns with the NCS Act, 2023, and relevant international conventions on the temporary admission and transit of vehicles. The newly established framework applies to all personal, non-commercial vehicles owned by international travelers visiting Nigeria for tourism, diplomatic, business, or personal reasons. This measure aims to facilitate cross-border movement, bolster Nigeria’s adherence to international commitments, and reinforce the country’s dedication to trade facilitation and regional integration.
Maiwada noted that the implementation is supported by Sections 142, 143, 144, and 245 of the NCS Act, 2023. It also adheres to the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC), UN TIR Convention (1975), Istanbul Convention (1990), and the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Residence, and Establishment. Additionally, it aligns with WCO Guidelines on Temporary Admission and the Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) regulations.
International travelers must present valid documents such as an international passport, international driver’s license, vehicle registration, insurance, and CPD at the point of entry. Upon satisfactory inspection and verification, a Temporary Vehicle Admission Permit valid for up to 90 days will be issued and electronically recorded. Travelers can apply for an extension of up to 30 days, subject to approval by the relevant Customs Area Controller.
Vehicles admitted under this regime are permitted to move freely within Nigeria but cannot be sold, leased, transferred, modified, or used for commercial purposes. At the point of exit, travelers must present the vehicle and the approved customs Temporary Admission Declaration. In the event of an accident, theft, or breakdown, the nearest Customs office should be notified immediately for documentation and guidance.
Maiwada reaffirmed the NCS’s commitment to transparency and accountability while facilitating legitimate travel. He emphasized that the initiative aims to strengthen Nigeria’s role in cross-border cooperation and ensure compliance with existing regulations to enhance security and efficiency.