Customs Begins Safe Passage Scheme for Temporarily Imported Personal Vehicles

Customs Begins Safe Passage Scheme for Temporarily Imported Personal Vehicles

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced the implementation of a new framework granting safe passage to personal vehicles temporarily imported into or transiting through Nigeria by international travellers.

The initiative, which is anchored on the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and supported by relevant international conventions, is designed to ease cross-border movement of vehicles while strengthening Nigeria’s compliance with global best practices on temporary admission and transit.

According to the NCS, the scheme applies to all personal, non-commercial vehicles owned by international travellers visiting Nigeria for tourism, diplomatic, business, or personal purposes. It aims to enhance trade facilitation, promote regional integration, and reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to international obligations.

The Service explained that the implementation is backed by Sections 142, 143, 144, and 245 of the NCS Act, 2023, as well as key international instruments including the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC), UN TIR Convention (1975), Istanbul Convention (1990), and the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Residence, and Establishment. It also aligns with the World Customs Organization (WCO) Guidelines on Temporary Admission and the Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) system.

Under the new arrangement, international travellers are required to present relevant documents at the point of entry, including a valid international passport, international driver’s licence, vehicle registration, insurance, and a CPD. Upon successful inspection and verification, Customs will issue a Temporary Vehicle Admission Permit valid for up to 90 days, which will be electronically recorded. An extension of up to 30 days may be granted, subject to approval by the appropriate Customs Area Controller.

The NCS noted 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 purposes. Travellers are also required to present the vehicle and approved Temporary Admission Declaration at the point of exit. In cases of accident, theft, or mechanical breakdown, the nearest Customs office must be notified promptly for documentation and guidance.

The Service reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the facilitation of legitimate travel, stating that the initiative will strengthen cross-border cooperation while ensuring regulatory compliance, security, and operational efficiency.