Oluwafunbi Bello 
LAGOS, Nigeria – Nigeria moves to tighten safety and quality controls on imported second-hand vehicles as regulators announce mandatory testing, accreditation and certification beginning by late 2026.
The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) says the new framework will subject used vehicles to capacity and conformity standards already required for newly imported cars. The policy, expected to commence between August and September 2026, aims to close what officials describe as a long-standing regulatory loophole.
Speaking at the 18th Nigeria Auto Journalist International Awards in Lagos, NADDC Director-General Joseph Osanipin questions why used vehicles, which often arrive in poorer condition, escape scrutiny. “We also have SONCAP, but you will ask why used vehicles, which are not as solid as new ones, do not have a similar certification,” Osanipin says. “This is an anomaly, and we are trying to correct it.”
Under the proposal, imported used vehicles must undergo testing and certification before clearing customs. The move forms part of a broader government strategy to gradually phase out second-hand vehicle imports while boosting domestic automobile assembly. “If new vehicles must meet international standards, what about used vehicles coming into the country?” Osanipin asks.
Officials acknowledge the policy may face resistance in a country heavily dependent on affordable imported vehicles. Osanipin appeals to the media to highlight the safety benefits. “When these policies come, there will be pushback. We need the media to explain that this will improve vehicle quality on Nigerian roads,” he says.
At the event, Deputy Minister of Industry John Enoh confirms the National Auto Industry Development Policy will soon take effect following Federal Executive Council approval, signalling a significant shift in Nigeria’s automotive landscape.
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