Nigeria To Fully Implement End-of-Life Vehicle Policy In 2026

Nigeria is set to commence full implementation of its End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) Policy in 2026, a move aimed at strengthening automotive waste management, curbing environmental pollution, and generating employment nationwide.

Under the policy, vehicle manufacturers, importers, owners, and recycling operators will be required to comply with regulations governing the proper treatment and disposal of obsolete and decommissioned vehicles.

The development is contained in a document released by the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), which details the Federal Government’s strategy for rolling out the policy across the country.

According to the Council, the 2026 rollout is designed to fully activate existing ELV and automotive waste recycling regulations nationwide.

NADDC noted that implementation will be supported by extensive awareness and sensitisation campaigns targeted at vehicle owners, mechanics, transport unions, and the general public, highlighting the environmental, economic, and safety advantages of ELV recycling.

The Council also disclosed plans to introduce capacity-building initiatives to equip recycling plant operators and auto technicians with the skills required for safe, standardised, and environmentally responsible ELV dismantling and handling.

“The implementation of the End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) Policy in 2026 will focus on putting the approved ELV and other automotive waste recycling regulations into full operation across Nigeria,” the document read in part.

It added, “Overall, the 2026 implementation of the ELV Policy aims to reduce environmental pollution. improve automotive waste management, create jobs, generate revenue, and support sustainable development of the Nigerian automotive sector.”

NADDC further explained that the licensing and certification of ELV collectors, dismantlers, and recycling facilities will be undertaken in collaboration with the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA).

To enhance oversight and compliance, the Council plans to establish a national data management system that will track vehicles, recycling plants, and trained technicians, while also supporting monitoring and long-term planning.

Additionally, NADDC revealed plans to encourage research and development in vehicle recycling, as well as set up a pilot ELV recycling plant to assess the feasibility, safety, and efficiency of the initiative.