Used Vehicle Imports Jump to N250bn as Government Tightens Regulations

Nigeria’s expenditure on imported used vehicles climbed sharply to N249.84 billion in the first quarter of 2026, reflecting a significant increase despite the Federal Government’s stricter regulatory measures on automobile imports.

According to figures released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in its Foreign Trade in Goods Statistics report for Q1 2026, the country imported pre-owned diesel and semi-diesel vehicles with engine capacities exceeding 2,500cc valued at N249.84 billion. This represents a 91.92 per cent rise compared to the N113.36 billion recorded during the same period in 2025.

The surge comes as authorities intensify enforcement of a newly introduced mandatory vehicle certification policy aimed at strengthening oversight of imported automobiles entering the country.

The report identified the United States as Nigeria’s leading supplier of used vehicles, accounting for imports worth N217.56 billion, which constituted approximately 87 per cent of the total value recorded in the quarter.

Other countries that contributed to Nigeria’s used vehicle imports include the United Arab Emirates with N10.32 billion, Canada with N8.72 billion, Italy with N6.64 billion, and China with N6.60 billion.

Industry observers say the continued demand for fairly used vehicles highlights the growing preference for affordable transportation options amid prevailing economic challenges.