By Ajibola Adedoye
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has unveiled a new digital verification platform aimed at curbing vehicle smuggling, improving transparency, and strengthening accountability in the automobile importation process.
The platform, known as the Customs Verification Management System (CVMS), was officially launched on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the NCS Headquarters in Abuja by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi.
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Speaking at the launch, Adeniyi described the initiative as a major milestone in the Service’s ongoing modernization drive, emphasizing that it closes long-standing loopholes in the vehicle clearance process.
“For years, verification of imported vehicles relied on fragmented and outdated methods that allowed room for misinformation, fraud, and revenue leakages,” he said. “The launch of this system marks another achievement in our bold transformation agenda.”
According to the Customs chief, the CVMS was developed in collaboration with the Trade Modernisation Project (TMP) and local technology experts to ensure a secure, efficient, and transparent vehicle verification process accessible to all Nigerians.
He explained that the platform would drastically reduce the circulation of smuggled or improperly cleared vehicles while boosting government revenue.
“This new solution empowers the public and strengthens the integrity of our Service by promoting transparency, accountability, and trust,” Adeniyi noted.
“Anyone who invests millions of naira in a vehicle would not hesitate to pay ₦15,000 to verify its authenticity and protect their investment.”
Adeniyi further stated that payments can be made using any valid debit or credit card—domestic or international—with verification results generated instantly.
The system creates a centralized vehicle database, allowing for real-time tracking, verification, and confirmation of vehicle details. This, he added, would enhance operational efficiency across Customs formations and improve coordination with other government agencies.
He stressed that the CVMS is a core component of the Service’s broader digital reform strategy focused on simplifying clearance procedures, promoting data-driven operations, and increasing transparency in revenue collection.
“This system brings openness to an area that was once clouded by uncertainty and manipulation. Across all our operations, we are deploying technology-driven solutions to simplify processes and strengthen accountability,” he emphasized.
Speaking on behalf of the Chairman of the Trade Modernisation Project, Dr. Jummai Umar-Ajijola, the Managing Director of TMP commended the Comptroller-General for his leadership and unwavering commitment to the initiative.
She described the CVMS as a bold and innovative step toward leveraging technology to improve revenue generation, operational efficiency, and stakeholder confidence.
“The TMP will continue to support the Service in realizing its modernization and ICT-driven vision,” Dr. Umar-Ajijola affirmed.
Also speaking at the event, the National President of the Association of Motor Dealers of Nigeria (AMDON), Ajibola Adedoyin, lauded the initiative and assured that his members would adopt the system after conducting an independent review.
“Once the benefits are clear, I can assure you that 90 percent of our members will be among the first to embrace this innovation,” Adedoyin said.
The launch of the Customs Verification Management System marks another significant stride in the NCS’s transformation journey, underscoring its commitment to transparency, innovation, and public trust in Nigeria’s trade and transportation ecosystem.
The system features a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)-based verification process, enabling individuals, importers, and car dealers to confirm the authenticity, origin, and duty payment status of vehicles in real time.
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