Nigerians spent far more on imported passenger cars in the first half of 2026 than a year earlier. According to a Nairametrics analysis of National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) foreign trade data, passenger motor car imports hit ₦1.18 trillion in H1 2026, up 145.6% from ₦479.26 billion in H1 2025. If you are thinking about buying tokunbo cars for sale in Nigeria, this guide explains what the number means, what it does not mean, and how to plan your own purchase.
The Numbers: What the NBS Data Shows
Here is the quarter-by-quarter breakdown of passenger car imports, as reported by Nairametrics from the NBS Q1 and Q2 2026 Foreign Trade Statistics:
- Q1 2026: ₦552.34 billion (Q1 2025: ₦224.58 billion)
- Q2 2026: ₦624.75 billion (Q2 2025: ₦254.67 billion)
- H1 2026 total: ₦1.18 trillion (H1 2025: ₦479.26 billion)
The wider transport bill also rose. Imports of transport equipment and parts reached ₦3.73 trillion in H1 2026, up 44.2% from ₦2.59 trillion. Industrial transport equipment climbed to ₦1.39 trillion from ₦975.18 billion, while parts and accessories actually slipped about 4.4% to ₦722.59 billion. In other words, the jump was driven by complete vehicles, not spare parts.
A Caution: Value Is Not the Same as Volume
The figures measure the Naira value of imported vehicles, not the number of cars. A 145.6% rise in value does not mean 145.6% more cars landed at Apapa or Tin Can. The data also does not split imports between new and used vehicles, and the reports we reviewed do not name the countries of origin. Exchange-rate movements and the mix of models can both push the Naira value up. So treat the headline as a sign of strong demand, not as proof that tokunbo prices have risen by any specific percentage.
Why Demand May Be Rising: Lower Import Duty
One likely factor is the federal government’s 2026 tariff changes. Nigeria Customs Service Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi told the House of Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise that duty on used vehicles was cut from 15% to 5%, and duty on brand-new vehicles from 20% to 10%. He said the revised tariff regime began being implemented in May 2026. The Customs boss also admitted the cuts “may negatively affect revenue,” while lawmakers questioned whether lower rates would be enough to stop importers using neighbouring ports such as Cotonou in Benin Republic.
Lawmakers also pointed out that overall port clearing costs remain high. That matters to you as a buyer, because import duty is only one part of the bill. Our guide to EV import duty in Nigeria covers the zero-duty route for electric vehicles introduced in April.
Will Tokunbo Prices Actually Fall?
Not automatically. Lower duty reduces one cost line, but a car’s final price in Nigeria depends on several things at once:
- The exchange rate at the time the dealer or importer pays for the car abroad.
- Shipping and port charges, which Nigerian lawmakers say remain a pain point.
- Other levies and surcharges, including the separate Green Tax Surcharge that reportedly took effect on 1 July under the 2026 fiscal measures. Importers and clearing agents have raised concerns about its effect on costs.
- Dealer margins and demand. When demand is strong, dealers have less reason to pass savings on quickly.
Dealers have reportedly suggested prices may not fall immediately. That is a reasonable expectation: stock already in Lagos was bought and cleared under older cost assumptions. Cars shipped and cleared after the cut are where any real saving is most likely to show up first.
Foreign-Used vs Nigerian-Used: Which Is Better Value?
With duty lower on imports, the foreign-used (tokunbo) route is attractive again, but it is not automatically cheaper than a Nigerian-used car. Compare them honestly:
- Foreign-used (tokunbo): usually lower mileage and a cleaner service history, but you carry shipping, clearing and the risk of buying unseen.
- Nigerian-used: no clearing cost and you can inspect the car in person, but mileage, accident history and odometer tampering are bigger concerns.
- Brand-new: duty is lower but sticker prices are still the highest, though you get a warranty and financing options. See our car loan Nigeria guide if you plan to finance.
Practical Checklist Before You Buy a Tokunbo Car
- Ask the dealer for a full breakdown: car price, shipping, duty, clearing and any other charges. Insist on the duty being based on current Customs valuation.
- Verify the vehicle’s history and VIN before paying. A pre-purchase inspection by an independent mechanic is cheap compared with a bad engine.
- Confirm whether the car was cleared at a Nigerian port with complete documents, so you do not end up with a vehicle that has trouble at registration.
- Budget for the extras: insurance, registration, number plates and first service. Our car insurance Nigeria comparison helps you pick cover.
- Check fuel economy against today’s pump prices. Our fuel cost per km breakdown shows how running costs differ by car.
- Do not pay large deposits to unknown online sellers. Meet in person or use a verified dealer.
Honest Drawbacks and Risks
A booming import bill is not purely good news. It signals heavy demand for foreign exchange at a time when many households are stretched. Lower duty may also shift buyers toward older, cheaper imports that cost more to maintain. And because the data is in Naira value, part of the increase may simply reflect higher prices rather than more cars on the road.
What This Means for Different Buyers
First-time buyers: do not rush because of headlines. Set a total budget that includes insurance and maintenance, and compare at least three dealers. Ride-hailing and delivery drivers: prioritise fuel efficiency and spare-parts availability over looks. Importers and small dealers: watch for further Customs guidance, since valuation methods and surcharges can change how much duty you actually pay.
FAQ
How much did Nigeria spend on car imports in H1 2026? Passenger car imports were ₦1.18 trillion, up 145.6% from H1 2025, per Nairametrics’ analysis of NBS data.
What is the current import duty on used cars in Nigeria? The Customs Comptroller-General said duty on used vehicles fell from 15% to 5% and on new vehicles from 20% to 10%. Other charges still apply, so ask your clearing agent for a full estimate.
Are tokunbo cars cheaper now? Not necessarily. Prices depend on the exchange rate, shipping, levies and dealer margins, and dealers have suggested the effect may take time.
Key takeaway: the ₦1.18 trillion figure shows strong demand and a friendlier duty regime, but it is a value figure, not a price guide. Get an itemised quote, inspect before you pay, and budget beyond the purchase price.
Disclaimer: vehicle prices, import duties and specs change frequently in Nigeria — always confirm current figures with the dealer or official source before buying.
