Police Resume Enforcement of Tinted Glass Permit from January 2026: What Motorists Need to Know
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has announced that enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy will resume on January 2, 2026, following a temporary suspension. The move comes amid rising concerns over vehicle-related crimes linked to unauthorised tinted windows.
Ejes Gist News reports that the decision was disclosed on Monday by NPF spokesman Benjamin Hundeyin, who highlighted a surge in criminal activities facilitated by vehicles fitted with illegal tinted glass.
Reason for Resumption of Enforcement
Hundeyin stated that the enforcement follows “a careful review of emerging security concerns and the need to ensure the safety of all citizens.” He explained that some individuals and organised criminal groups have been using unauthorised tinted glass to conceal their identities while committing crimes such as:
- Armed robbery
- Kidnapping
- Other violent offenses
The police emphasised that the resumption of enforcement is in line with legal provisions, and no court has issued an order restraining the NPF from implementing the policy.
Previous Suspension and Court Challenges
In October 2025, the Nigeria Police temporarily suspended tinted glass enforcement to allow motorists time to regularise their documents. This suspension also considered ongoing legal challenges, particularly by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
The NBA had filed a lawsuit against Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, contesting the legality of the tinted glass permit policy. The association cited concerns over citizens’ rights and questioned the applicability of the Motor Tinted Glass (Prohibition) Act (Decree 1991), a law enacted during the military era.
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Despite the suspension, Hundeyin noted that “recent trends reveal a disturbing rise in criminal activities perpetrated with the aid of vehicles fitted with unauthorised tinted glass.”
How Motorists Can Comply
The Inspector-General assured that enforcement will be carried out professionally, respecting citizens’ rights. Motorists are advised to secure their tinted glass permits through official channels to avoid penalties. Key points include:
- Permits are annual and must be renewed each year.
- Applications should be submitted through the official NPF platform.
- Compliance ensures adherence to both the law and road safety regulations.
Hundeyin reiterated that the NPF remains committed to enforcing laws fairly, transparently, and in collaboration with the justice system.
Background on the Policy
The tinted glass permit policy was first introduced by the IGP in April 2025. Motorists were instructed to obtain permits for a stipulated fee, with a dedicated online platform launched to process applications.
The Nigerian Bar Association had formally objected to the policy during its National Executive Council (NEC) pre-conference meeting on August 23, 2025, raising concerns over legality, citizens’ rights, and the application of the 1991 decree.
Key Takeaways for Drivers
- Enforcement Resumes: January 2, 2026.
- Legal Compliance: Obtain official tinted glass permits through NPF-approved channels.
- Risks of Non-Compliance: Fines, vehicle impoundment, or other legal consequences.
- Criminal Implications: Police are particularly vigilant about vehicles used in criminal activities.
Motorists are advised to act promptly to secure their permits to avoid disruptions and ensure legal compliance.
