Customs Eases Entry For Foreign Vehicles

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has rolled out a new framework to allow international travellers to temporarily import or transit personal vehicles across Nigeria, a move aimed at easing cross-border travel and boosting regional integration.

The initiative, grounded in the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and several international conventions, provides legal backing for the temporary admission of non-commercial vehicles belonging to tourists, diplomats, and business travellers.

Under the scheme, travellers are required to present valid documents, including international passports, driver’s licences, vehicle registration papers, insurance, and Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) at points of entry.

Upon verification, a Temporary Vehicle Admission Permit valid for up to 90 days will be issued and recorded electronically, with the option to apply for a 30-day extension subject to approval by the relevant Customs Area Controller.

Vehicles admitted under the regime are allowed to move freely within the country but cannot be sold, leased, transferred, modified, or used for commercial purposes.

Travellers must present the vehicle and the approved customs Temporary Admission Declaration upon exit. In the event of accidents, theft, or breakdowns, the NCS instructs travellers to notify the nearest customs office for proper documentation and guidance.

The move aligns Nigeria with international best practices, including the Revised Kyoto Convention, UN TIR Convention, Istanbul Convention, and ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Residence, and Establishment.

It also reflects Nigeria’s commitment to trade facilitation, cross-border cooperation, and ensuring security while supporting legitimate travel.

The NCS emphasized that the framework reinforces transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the management of temporary vehicle admissions, while making Nigeria a more accessible and traveller-friendly destination.

Abdullahi Maiwada, Deputy Comptroller of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, confirmed the commencement of the implementation on January 7, 2026, signaling a significant step in Nigeria’s engagement with international travellers.