The Nigeria Customs Services (NCS) disclosed it has commenced procedures for granting safe passage to personal vehicles temporarily imported or transiting through Nigeria by international travellers. The Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and pertinent international conventions on temporary admission and transit of vehicles serve as the foundation for the initiative, according to a statement released on Wednesday by the service's National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, a Deputy Comptroller of Customs.
He emphasised that any personal, non-commercial vehicles owned by foreign visitors to Nigeria for business, tourism, diplomatic, or personal reasons are covered by the new framework. He went on to say that the programme aimed to facilitate cross-border travel, bolster Nigeria's adherence to international commitments, and reaffirm the country's dedication to regional integration and trade facilitation.
“It is pertinent to note that this implementation draws legal backing from Sections 142, 143, 144, and 245 of the NCS Act, 2023. “As well as the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC), the UN TIR Convention (1975), the Istanbul Convention (1990), and the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Residence, and Establishment. “It also aligns with WCO Guidelines on Temporary Admission and the Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) regulations,” he said.
Maiwada claims that at the point of entry, foreign visitors must provide legitimate documents such as an international passport, an international driver's license, a vehicle registration, insurance, and CPD. He stated that a Temporary Vehicle Admission Permit with a maximum 90-day validity period would be issued and electronically recorded following a satisfactory examination and verification. He further mentioned that, if approved by the appropriate Customs Area Controller, visitors could request an extension of up to 30 days.
According to Maiwada, cars that were allowed under this regime could travel freely inside Nigeria but could not be sold, leased, transferred, altered, or used for business. He advised visitors to show the car and the authorised customs Temporary Admission Declaration at the time of departure. He states that the closest Customs office should be contacted right away for documentation and assistance in the event of an accident, theft, or breakdown.
Maiwada reiterated the NCS's dedication to accountability and openness while promoting lawful travel. According to him, the initiative guarantees adherence to current legislation to improve efficiency and security while also strengthening Nigeria's role in cross-border cooperation.