FG Clarifies Vehicle Certification Policy, Assures Importers of Smooth Port Clearance

 

By Kayode Olopade 

The Federal Government has moved to allay public concerns over the newly introduced Vehicle Conformity Assessment Programme (VehCAP), assuring that no vehicle will be stranded at Nigerian ports due to non-compliance with the scheme.

In a joint statement issued by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria and the National Automotive Design and Development Council, the government said the initiative is designed to enhance safety, quality assurance, and transparency in the automotive sector without disrupting trade.

The agencies explained that VehCAP is not an entirely new regulatory regime but an upgrade of existing conformity assessment frameworks aimed at improving efficiency across the vehicle importation and production value chain.

Addressing concerns about enforcement, the government clarified that vehicles arriving in the country without VehCAP certification would still be processed through the normal customs clearance system.

However, such vehicles will be subjected to mandatory destination inspection and in-country verification at designated testing centres after clearance. Upon successful assessment, the required documentation will be issued to enable registration and licensing.

According to the statement, the programme primarily focuses on pre-shipment verification of both new and used vehicles to ensure compliance with Nigerian standards before they arrive in the country.

The government stressed that the initiative is driven by the need to safeguard lives and prevent the influx of substandard vehicles, noting the safety risks associated with unregulated imports.

To ensure a smooth transition, authorities have introduced a 90-day window following the full commencement of the programme. During this period, vehicles without prior certification will still be eligible for in-country conformity assessment, allowing importers time to adjust to the new requirements.

Despite the transition arrangement, the government maintained that provisions for destination verification would remain available for non-compliant imports where necessary.

It also underscored the importance of stakeholder engagement, describing the recent launch of the programme as the beginning of a nationwide sensitisation campaign targeting importers, dealers, regulators, and the general public.

The Federal Government reiterated that VehCAP is structured to facilitate trade rather than hinder it, while ensuring that only safe and standard-compliant vehicles are introduced into the Nigerian market.

It further expressed appreciation for public feedback, assuring stakeholders of continued inclusiveness and transparency in the implementation of the programme.