Auto

Confusion persists as Customs confirms vehicle import duty now 20%

Published

4 years ago

April 12, 2022

Importers of new and used vehicles are now paying 20 per cent as duty to the coffers of the government, the Nigeria Customs Service has said.

The confirmation came on Monday after importers and clearing agents had cried out that they were still paying the old rate of 35 per cent as import duty even when the NCS had announced the slash.

In a statement signed by spokesman for the Customs, Timi Bomodi, the agency said that the 20 per cent duty was for both used and new imported vehicles.

In a statement signed by spokesman for the Customs, Timi Bomodi, the agency said that the 20 per cent duty is for both used and new imported vehicles.
The statement read in part, “On Friday, the 1st of April 2022, the Nigeria Customs Service migrated from the old version of the ECOWAS Common External Tariff (2017- 2021) to the new version (2022- 2026). This is in line with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) five years review of the nomenclature. The contracting parties are expected to adopt the review based on regional considerations and national economic policy.
“The nation has adopted all tariff lines with few adjustments in the extant CET. As allowed for in Annex II of the 2022-2026 CET edition, and in line with the Finance Act and the National Automotive policy, NCS has retained a duty rate of 20 per cent for used vehicles as was transmitted by ECOWAS with a NAC levy of 15 per cent. New vehicles will also pay a duty of 20 per cent with a NAC levy of 20 per cent as directed in the Federal Ministry of Finance letter ref. no. HMF BNP/NCS/CET/4/2022 of 7th April 2022.
“It is instructive to note that domestic fiscal policy on the importation of motor vehicles and other items is targeted at growing the local economy in these sectors. The focus of NCS is on the implementation of these policies in the hope that it achieves its desired objectives in line with the National Automotive Policy and other fiscal policies of the government.
“The NCS has also activated the use of Chapters 98 and 99 of the CET, in accordance with WCO recommendation for national use by contracting parties, which in our case promotes industrialisation through sectoral and sub-sectoral incentives for members targeted at economic growth, enhancement of security and minimized consumption of unwholesome goods.
“It should also be noted that the automotive industry, bonafide assemblers, manufacturers of auto spare parts and other local manufacturers enhance technology transfer and skill acquisition, create jobs and increase per capita income.
“In Chapter 98 of the current CET – bonafide assemblers importing Completely Knocked Down (CKD) and Semi Knocked Down (SKD) are to enjoy a concession of 0% and 10% duty rate respectively. While within ECOWAS, duty rate for the same items are five per cent and 10 per cent respectively.”
But the Federal Government in the draft 2020 Finance Bill had proposed a reduction in duties on tractors and vehicles for transportation of goods from 35 per cent to 10 per cent while the duties on vehicles for transportation of persons (cars) were reduced from 35 to five per cent.

This led to was an uproar from investors in the nation’s auto manufacturing sector.

Vice President Yemi dismissed the fear, saying the decision to slash duty on imported vehicles was not an attempt by the government to kill the nation’s automobile manufacturing industry but to reduce the cost of transportation in the face of growing economic challenges.

He also stressed that it was to meet the huge vehicle need of the country, put at an annual demand of 720,000 against 14,000 local production capacities.

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Motoring World marks 30 years, set to rally industry leaders in Lagos

Published

14 hours ago

March 30, 2026

Trends Admin

Motoring World marks 30 years, set to rally industry leaders in Lagos

Motoring World, one of Nigeria’s foremost automotive publications, will celebrate its 30th anniversary on June 4, 2026, with a high-profile event at the MUSON Centre.

The milestone gathering is expected to draw policymakers, industry leaders, diplomats and innovators to commemorate three decades of impactful journalism, advocacy and contribution to the growth of Nigeria’s automotive sector.

Founded on June 12, 1996, as a syndicated radio magazine programme, Motoring World pioneered automotive broadcasting in Nigeria before expanding into print in 1998. It has since evolved into a multi-platform brand at the forefront of promoting industry development, modernization and policy reform.

Over the years, the publication has gone beyond news reporting to play an active role in shaping regulatory frameworks, encouraging local content development and promoting industry standards.

Publisher and Chief Executive Officer, Femi Owoeye, said the organisation was driven by a clear vision from inception.

Motoring World marks 30 years, set to rally industry leaders in Lagos

Auto

Hyundai unveils flagship SUV Palisade, rolls out strong line-up in Lagos showcase

Published

1 day ago

March 29, 2026

Trends Admin

Hyundai unveils flagship SUV Palisade, rolls out strong line-up in Lagos showcase

Hyundai Nigeria has unveiled the all-new Hyundai Palisade in Lagos, headlining a media showcase that also featured the Hyundai Accent, Hyundai Creta, Hyundai Tucson and Hyundai Santa Fe, as the automaker intensifies its push across key segments of the Nigerian market.

The event, held at the company’s Victoria Island showroom, offered journalists a first-hand view of Hyundai’s expanding portfolio, ranging from entry-level sedans to premium three-row SUVs.

Taking centre stage was the debut of the Palisade, Hyundai’s flagship SUV, positioned to strengthen the brand’s foothold in the premium segment.

With its bold exterior styling, spacious three-row layout, upscale interior and advanced safety and convenience features, the model is targeted at families and executive buyers seeking comfort, space and strong road presence.

Across the line-up, Hyundai showcased a broad spectrum of offerings. The Santa Fe reinforces its appeal as a refined, family-oriented SUV with generous cabin space and premium detailing, while the Tucson stands out for its blend of modern design, practicality and everyday versatility.

In the compact SUV category, the Creta was highlighted for its mix of style, efficiency and urban functionality, while the Accent sedan retains its positioning as a practical and cost-effective option for young professionals, fleet operators and first-time buyers.

Speaking at the event, Brand Head, Hyundai Nigeria, Gaurav Vashisht, said the launch underscores the company’s commitment to deepening its footprint in Nigeria with globally competitive products adapted to local needs.

“This introduction of the all-new Palisade strengthens our premium SUV offering while complementing a well-rounded line-up that delivers on design, safety, innovation and everyday usability,” he said.

The showcase also provided an avenue for media interaction with Hyundai executives and product specialists, alongside detailed vehicle walkarounds covering design, technology and safety features.

Hyundai Nigeria reaffirmed its focus on delivering globally benchmarked vehicles with strong local relevance, even as competition intensifies in Nigeria’s evolving passenger vehicle market.

The event also marked the launch of Hyundai’s Easter campaign, offering customers value-added benefits such as complimentary delivery, accessories, registration and service packages.

Auto

Jetour T2 Plug-in Hybrid EV: Rugged Adventure Meets Smart Electric Power

Published

5 days ago

March 25, 2026

Trends Admin

Jetour T2 Plug-in Hybrid EV: Rugged Adventure Meets Smart Electric Power

Jetour is pushing the boundaries of Nigeria’s Sports Utility Vehicl (SUV) market with the T2 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), a model that blends rugged off-road capability with the intelligence of modern electrification.

Built for motorists who demand strength without compromising comfort or efficiency, the T2 PHEV cuts an imposing figure with its bold stance—measuring 4,785mm in length, 2,006mm in width and 1,875mm in height—making it both commanding and practical.

According to Jetour Nigeria, the SUV is engineered to strike a balance between performance and efficiency, delivering a smooth, refined driving experience while offering premium comfort for both city commutes and long-distance travel.

Its accredited dealers across Nigeria – Elizade Nigeria Limited, New Era Autovehicle Services Limited, Kojo Motors, Germaine Auto Centre, Tab Autos Limited, R.T. Briscoe Motors and Mandilas Autos, are ensuring accessibility and support for customers nationwide, as one of the SUV’s standout qualities is its dual driving nature.

The T2 Hybrid delivers impressive fuel economy on petrol but can switch seamlessly to pure electric mode when required.

This flexibility reduces fuel costs and supports the Federal Government’s drive towards cleaner and greener energy solutions.

Jetour has also addressed common concerns around electrified vehicles.

The T2 Hybrid supports fast charging, slow charging, engine charging and brake energy recovery. In real terms, the system ensures the battery is constantly being replenished while driving, eliminating range anxiety and making ownership easier.

When the battery gets low, the 1.5 litre turbocharged engine takes over, but not to drive the wheels. It acts as a portable generator, charging the battery while you keep driving.

Energy is stored in a 26.73kWh battery, giving the T2 Hybrid the confidence to handle highways, urban traffic and rough terrain with ease.

The arrival of the T2 PHEV builds on Jetour’s growing reputation in Nigeria.

In 2024, the brand was named Fastest Growing Brand at the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) Awards, while the Jetour Dashing clinched Nigeria’s Car of the Year in 2025.

Safety is a major strength. The T2 PHEV comes with multiple airbags, Advanced Emergency Braking, Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold, anti-rollover control and a 360-degree camera with 2D and 3D views.

Additional systems include lane departure warning, blind-spot detection, collision alerts, wading sensing system, bend braking control and automatic door locking.

Inside, technology and comfort take centre stage. A 15.6-inch touchscreen supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, voice commands and wireless charging.

Features such as adaptive cruise control, panoramic roof, ventilated power seats, Sony 12-speaker audio and LED Matrix headlamps further enhance the experience.

Performance is sharpened by the advanced 3-speed Super E-Hybrid DHT system, delivering strong climbs, quick overtakes and efficient energy use.

It can run quietly on electric power for daily commutes or unleash turbo strength for long journeys.

Backing it all is strong aftersales support, including a five-year or 150,000-kilometre warranty, underlining Jetour’s confidence in its technology and commitment to Nigerian motorists.

With the T2 PHEV, adventure is not just about getting there, it’s about travelling smarter, cleaner and in unmistakable style.