The Force explained that although enforcement was previously suspended, the action was taken voluntarily and not as a result of any court order.
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has announced the resumption of enforcement of the Tinted Glass Permit policy, insisting that at no time did any court restrain the Force from enforcing the law.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the police said the decision followed a careful review of prevailing security concerns and the need to ensure the safety of citizens nationwide.
The Force explained that although enforcement was previously suspended, the action was taken voluntarily and not as a result of any court order.
According to the NPF, the temporary suspension was in the interest of responsibility, transparency, and public convenience, allowing motorists ample opportunity to regularise their documentation and complete the permit application process without undue pressure.
However, the police said recent trends have shown a disturbing increase in criminal activities involving vehicles fitted with unauthorised tinted glass.
It noted that some individuals and organised criminal groups have taken advantage of the situation to conceal their identities and carry out crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent offences.
“In view of this, the Nigeria Police Force has found it both necessary and urgent to resume full enforcement as a proactive measure to safeguard our communities,” the statement said.
The Force announced that enforcement of the Tinted Glass Permit requirement will resume on January 2, 2026.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, assured the public that the renewed enforcement would be carried out with professionalism, respect for citizens’ rights, and strict adherence to extant laws.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Force to public safety and the rule of law while working with relevant stakeholders to keep the country secure.
The police also urged motorists who require tinted glass permits to apply through approved channels and ensure their vehicles comply with legal requirements.
The use of tinted glass on vehicles in Nigeria is regulated under existing traffic and security laws, with permits required to prevent abuse that could undermine public safety.
Over the years, enforcement of the policy has generated public debate, with motorists raising concerns over alleged harassment, extortion, and inconsistencies in implementation by security personnel.
In response to the concerns, the Nigeria Police Force in recent years suspended and reviewed enforcement of the policy, while introducing digital and centralised permit application processes aimed at improving transparency and ease of access.
During this period, the police repeatedly warned that vehicles with unauthorised tinted glass posed security risks, particularly in the context of rising incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent crimes.
The renewed enforcement, according to the Force, is intended to strike a balance between citizens’ convenience and the urgent need to address security threats linked to the misuse of tinted vehicles.