The Nigeria Customs Service has commenced the implementation of a safe passage scheme for personal vehicles temporarily imported into or transiting through Nigeria by international travellers.
The initiative, which takes effect immediately, applies to non commercial vehicles brought into the country for tourism, diplomatic, business, or personal use.
The development was disclosed in a press release issued by the National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, Abdullahi Maiwada, on behalf of the Comptroller General of Customs, and made available to journalists on Tuesday.
According to the Service, the policy is backed by provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and supported by international conventions governing temporary admission and transit of vehicles. It is aimed at easing cross border movement, strengthening Nigeria’s compliance with international obligations, and improving trade facilitation within the region.
Maiwada stated that the framework covers all personal vehicles owned by international travellers and does not extend to commercial use.
He said, “This initiative reflects the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to facilitating legitimate travel while ensuring strict adherence to existing laws and international best practices.”
He explained that the implementation draws legal authority 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.
The Customs spokesman added that international travellers are required to present relevant documents at approved entry points, including a valid international passport, international driver’s license, vehicle registration papers, insurance documents, and a Carnet de Passages en Douane where applicable.
“Upon satisfactory inspection and verification, Customs will issue a Temporary Vehicle Admission Permit valid for up to 90 days. This permit will be electronically recorded, and travellers may apply for an extension of up to 30 days, subject to approval by the appropriate Customs Area Controller,” Maiwada said.
He further clarified 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 activities. According to him, “At the point of exit, travellers are required to present the vehicle along with the approved Customs Temporary Admission Declaration for clearance.”
Maiwada also noted that in cases of accident, theft, or mechanical breakdown, travellers are expected to notify the nearest Customs office immediately for proper documentation and guidance.
He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and national security, stating, “This policy strengthens Nigeria’s role in cross border cooperation and reinforces our resolve to align with global standards while safeguarding the country’s borders.”
