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The Nigeria Customs Service has begun implementing a new framework that allows international travellers to bring personal vehicles into Nigeria temporarily under a safe-passage arrangement.
The initiative, which took effect on Wednesday, applies to non-commercial vehicles imported or transiting through Nigeria for tourism, diplomatic, business or personal use.
Customs said the move is aimed at easing cross-border travel while ensuring compliance with local laws and international trade and transit conventions.
The development was announced in a statement signed by the Deputy Comptroller of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada.
According to Maiwada, the framework is anchored on the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and supported by international agreements governing the temporary admission and transit of vehicles.
Maiwada said eligible travellers must present required documents at entry points, including a valid international passport, an international driver’s licence, vehicle registration papers, insurance documents and a Carnet de Passages en Douane.
He explained that after inspection and verification, Customs would issue a Temporary Vehicle Admission Permit valid for up to 90 days, with details captured electronically.
“The permit may be extended for an additional 30 days, subject to approval by the relevant Customs Area Controller,” Maiwada said.
Maiwada said the policy draws 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 of 1975, the Istanbul Convention of 1990 and the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Residence and Establishment.
“Vehicles admitted under this regime are free to move within Nigeria but cannot be sold, leased, transferred, modified, or used for commercial purposes. At the point of exit, travellers should present the vehicle and the approved Customs Temporary Admission Declaration,” he added
“In the event of an accident, theft, or breakdown, the nearest Customs office should be notified immediately for documentation and guidance.
“The NCS, therefore, reaffirms its commitment to transparency and accountability while facilitating legitimate travel. This initiative strengthens Nigeria’s role in cross-border cooperation and ensures compliance with existing regulations to enhance security and efficiency.”
