The Nigerian police have announced the resumption of tinted-glass permit issuance to motorists nationwide, reversing a suspension that had been in place since June 2021. This decision follows numerous complaints from Nigerians about alleged harassment by police officers regarding tinted windows. The initial ban was enacted in response to increased "one-chance" criminal activities, particularly in Abuja and other major cities.

The prior ban led to frequent disputes between motorists and police, sometimes escalating into significant disturbances. In February 2024, three police officers in Lagos State were charged with professional misconduct for demanding tinted-glass permits from drivers. Furthermore, the House of Representatives intervened, urging the FCT Police Command to cease the indiscriminate harassment of motorists and to release vehicles impounded for tinted-glass violations, provided no other offenses were involved.

Police spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi stated that the permit can now be obtained online via the Police Specialized Services Automation Project (POSSAP) platform (https://www.possap.gov.ng), eliminating the need for physical meetings. According to Adejobi, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, reactivated the issuance to address public concerns and ensure a transparent process for legalizing factory-tinted windows while maintaining public safety.

Adejobi emphasized that tinted vehicles have been used for criminal activities such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and scams, and that tinted windows impede police visibility and law enforcement efforts. The reactivated permit system aims to identify legitimate users, such as those with medical needs or security personnel, while preventing misuse by criminals. The system requires applicants to provide their Tax Identification Number (TIN) and National Identification Number (NIN), along with biometric data.

The digital permits will feature QR codes, with a processing timeline of 72 hours. Motorists are expected to comply starting May 31, 2025, with a 30-day grace period beginning May 1, 2025, for compliance. Officers found extorting motorists during enforcement will face severe disciplinary action. IGP Egbetokun urges the public to support the initiative for safer roads and enhanced public trust.

The previous IGP, Usman Alkali Baba, had banned tinted-glass permits in June 2021, citing fraudulent acquisition and misuse of SPY number plates, which are intended for specific corporate bodies. Baba initiated a review of existing authorizations and protocols. Supernumerary (SPY) police numbers are meant to provide security privileges to users.

Intelligence expert Abdullahi Garba commented that while the current measures have value, intelligence gathering remains crucial for addressing security challenges. He noted that many major criminal attacks no longer occur on highways where tinted windows are a factor and emphasized the need for police to strengthen their intelligence network.

To apply for a tinted-glass permit through the POSSAP platform, follow these steps: visit www.possap.gov.ng, sign up using your NIN, BVN, or TIN, create an account with accurate personal information, verify your email, log in, select “Tinted Glass Permit,” input vehicle details and upload required documents, review and submit your application, and make payment online. Applicants will then be scheduled for vehicle inspection and biometric data capture at their selected NPF Intelligence Department.