January 7, 2026 — Source: DailyTrend
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced the implementation of procedures to grant safe passage for personal vehicles temporarily imported or transiting through Nigeria by international travellers, the service announced in a press release.
Anchored in the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023 and supported by key international conventions — including the Revised Kyoto Convention, UN TIR Convention, Istanbul Convention, and the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons — the initiative aims to ease cross‑border movement, enhance compliance with international obligations, and promote trade facilitation and regional integration.
The scheme applies to personal, non‑commercial vehicles belonging to international travellers visiting Nigeria for tourism, diplomatic, business, or personal purposes. Eligible travellers must present valid documentation such as an international passport, international driver’s licence, vehicle registration, insurance, and Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) at the point of entry. Upon verification, a Temporary Vehicle Admission Permit valid for up to 90 days will be issued and recorded electronically.
Travellers may apply for a 30‑day extension subject to approval by the relevant Customs Area Controller. Vehicles under this regime are allowed free movement within Nigeria but cannot be sold, leased, transferred, modified, or used for commercial purposes. At exit, the approved customs Temporary Admission Declaration must be presented. In cases of accident, theft, or breakdown, the nearest Customs office should be notified for documentation and guidance.
The NCS reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability while facilitating legitimate travel and strengthening Nigeria’s role in cross‑border cooperation and compliance enforcement.