The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made vehicle log book a mandatory requirement for the clearance of used vehicles imported into the country.
A vehicle log book is a document that tracks the registration and taxation history of a particular vehicle.
In some European countries, vehicle log books act as proof of ownership and are used by authorities to ensure nationwide record of vehicles and their owners. In such countries, the vehicle’s logbook must be filled in by both the seller and the buyer every time the vehicle changes hands.
According to a circular number NCS/T&T/DCG/HQ/S.52/VOL. III dated 23 April 2021, Customs said the new requirement is ‘in consonance with the provisions of Customs & Excise Notice No. 30 of 6th December, 1971’.
Signed by T.M. Isa, deputy comptroller-general, Tariff and Trade, the circular gave a grace period of 90 days, effective from the date the circular was issued, “to enable all importers who must have entered into trade transactions before this circular, process and clear their vehicles.”
“For the purposes of emphasis, importation of used motor vehicles requires the production of vehicle log book, in addition to other clearance documents after the grace period,” the circular further stated.
