Why Nigeria Imports Cars from Japan
Japan is Nigeria's top source of imported used vehicles. Brands like Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and Lexus are prized for their reliability and available spare parts across Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt. Importing directly from Japan via a verified exporter saves Nigerians significantly compared to buying from local Tokunbo dealers who add their own margins.
Step 1: Choose the Right Vehicle
The most popular Japanese imports to Nigeria include the Toyota Camry, Toyota RAV4, Honda Accord, Lexus RX, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota Land Cruiser. Most buyers target model years from 2015 onwards to stay within import age limits and ensure modern safety features.
Set a total budget: vehicle price + shipping (approx. $1,200–$2,000 to Lagos) + import levies (35% CISS + Customs Duty + VAT + ETLS + Surcharge). For a $10,000 vehicle, total landed cost is typically $15,000–$17,000.
Step 2: Find a Verified Japanese Exporter
Work only with exporters who have a verifiable Japanese business address, export license, and documented shipments to Nigeria. Ask for references from Nigerian buyers. Avoid any exporter who requests payment via Western Union, MoneyGram, or informal channels.
Japanese Auto World lists only manually verified exporters. Contact them directly — no agent commission applies.
Step 3: Nigeria Import Regulations
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and NAFDAC regulate vehicle imports:
- Age limit: Vehicles must not be older than 15 years from the year of manufacture (as at date of import). This means 2011 model year or newer as of 2026.
- Approved ports: Lagos (Apapa and Tin Can Island) are the main vehicle entry points. Vehicle imports through land borders are prohibited.
- Drive type: Nigeria uses right-hand traffic (left-hand drive). However, due to the high volume of RHD imports, both LHD and RHD vehicles are found in Nigeria. Japanese exports are RHD, which is legal and very common.
- Form M: You or your clearing agent must obtain a Form M from a Nigerian bank before your vehicle ships from Japan.
Step 4: Import Duties and Levies
Nigeria's import taxes on vehicles are significant:
- Import Duty: 5–35% of CIF value depending on vehicle type and engine size
- CISS (Destination Inspection): 1% of FOB value
- VAT: 7.5%
- ECOWAS Trade Levy (ETLS): 0.5%
- Surcharge: 7% on most vehicles
Contact the Nigeria Customs Service or use the NCS Trade Portal to get exact duty rates for your vehicle's HS code before purchasing.
Step 5: Payment Process
Bank wire transfer (T/T) in USD or JPY is standard. Request a pro-forma invoice, verify the exporter's bank details through official channels, and never pay to a third-party account. A 30% deposit followed by 70% before loading is a safe arrangement. Get a receipt for every payment.
Step 6: Shipping to Nigeria
Main shipping ports from Japan: Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka. Main destination port: Apapa (Lagos) or Tin Can Island. Transit time: approximately 30–40 days. RoRo shipping is the most common and cost-effective option for Nigeria.
Purchase marine insurance for your vehicle — around 0.5–1.5% of vehicle value. Ensure the insurance certificate names you as the beneficiary.
Step 7: Required Documents
- Original Bill of Lading
- Japanese Export Certificate
- Commercial Invoice (showing FOB value)
- Packing List
- Marine Insurance Certificate
- Form M (obtained from Nigerian bank pre-shipment)
- Combined Certificate of Value and Origin (CCVO)
- JEVIC Inspection Report (recommended)
Step 8: Clearing at Lagos Port
Hire a licensed NAFDAC-registered clearing agent. They will process your Single Goods Declaration (SGD) on the Nigeria Customs NICIS-II system, pay duties, and manage release of the vehicle. Budget 7–14 working days for full clearance at Apapa or Tin Can.
Key Tips for Nigeria Importers
- Obtain your Form M from the bank before the car ships — this is a legal requirement
- Verify your exporter's track record with Nigerian buyers specifically
- Confirm the vehicle year against Nigeria's 15-year age limit rule
- Request JEVIC grading and full video inspection before payment
- Track your shipment using the Bill of Lading number on the shipping line's website
- Work with a clearing agent experienced in vehicle imports at Lagos ports
Browse Verified Exporters Shipping to Nigeria
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