The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has officially rolled out a new policy that grants a temporary duty waiver for personal vehicles brought into the country by international visitors. This significant move, announced on Wednesday, January 8, 2026, is designed to ease cross-border travel and align Nigeria with global trade facilitation standards.
Legal Framework and Purpose of the New Policy
In a statement signed by Deputy Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer, the Customs Service clarified that this initiative is firmly rooted in the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023. It is also supported by key international conventions, including the Revised Kyoto Convention, the UN TIR Convention (1975), and the Istanbul Convention (1990).
The primary goal is to simplify procedures for foreigners driving into Nigeria for purposes such as tourism, official business, diplomatic engagements, or personal visits. The NCS stated that the scheme aims to improve compliance with international obligations and reinforce Nigeria's commitment to regional integration, particularly under the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement.
Strict Conditions and Application Process
The duty waiver is not a blanket approval but comes with a clear set of rules and a strict timeline. Eligible vehicles must be privately owned and non-commercial. Upon entry, travellers must present several documents for inspection and verification:
- A valid international passport
- An international driver's licence
- The vehicle's original registration documents
- Valid insurance
- A Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD)
After verification, Customs will issue a Temporary Vehicle Admission Permit, which is electronically recorded. This permit is valid for an initial period of up to 90 days. An extension of a maximum of 30 days may be requested, subject to approval by the relevant Customs Area Controller.
Key Restrictions and Exit Procedures
The NCS has issued a stern warning regarding the misuse of vehicles imported under this scheme. The vehicles cannot be sold, leased, transferred, modified, or used for commercial transportation within Nigeria. They are permitted to move freely across the country only for the duration of the approved stay.
At the point of exit, the traveller must present both the vehicle and the approved customs declaration to officials. In cases of an accident, theft, or breakdown, the nearest Customs office must be notified immediately for proper documentation and guidance.
This policy underscores the NCS's drive towards greater transparency and accountability while facilitating legitimate international travel. It is also seen as a step that will strengthen cross-border cooperation and enhance the security and efficiency of Nigeria's ports of entry.
The announcement comes on the heels of other recent measures aimed at easing import processes, including a reduction in the customs exchange rate by the Central Bank of Nigeria earlier in 2024, which lowered the cost of clearing goods.
