Abuja Wednesday, January 7, 2026-The Nigeria Customs Service NCS, has unveiled procedures for granting of safe passage to personal vehicles temporarily imported or transiting through the country by international travelers.

According to a statement by the National Public Relations Officer, Deputy Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, the new framework covers all personal, non-commercial vehicles belonging to international travelers visiting Nigeria for tourism, diplomatic, business, or personal purposes.

The new framework also seeks to ease cross-border movement, strengthen Nigeria’s compliance with international obligations, and reinforce the nation’s commitment to trade facilitation and regional integration.

The Customs Chief Image- Maker also noted that the initiative is in line with the provisions of Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and relevant international conventions on temporary admission and transit of vehicles.

The statement reads in part: “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), UN TIR Convention (1975), 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.

“Under the new regime, international travelers are required to present valid documents such as international passport, international driver’s license, vehicle registration, insurance, and CPD at the point of entry.

“Upon satisfactory inspection and verification, a Temporary Vehicle Admission Permit valid for up to 90 days will be issued and electronically recorded. Travellers may apply for an extension of up to 30 days, subject to approval by the relevant Customs Area Controller, the NCS explained.

“Vehicles admitted under this regime are free to move within Nigeria but cannot be sold, leased, transferred, modified, or used for commercial purposes.”

 “At the point of exit, travelers should present the vehicle and the approved Customs Temporary Admission Declaration. In the event of an accident, theft, or breakdown, the nearest Customs office should be notified immediately for documentation and guidance.”

As part of measures to ensure a smooth implementation of the new frame, the Service urged intending travelers to comply with all the requirement while reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accountability and facilitating legitimate travel.

The Service also argued that that the new initiative would strengthen the country’s role in cross-border cooperation and ensures compliance with existing regulations to enhance security and efficiency.