Police To Begin Enforcement Of E-Motor Registry On July 29

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has announced plans to start enforcing the digitalized Central Motor Registry (e-CMR) on July 29, 2024, within the next 14 days.

LagosTimes Nigeria learnt that this initiative aims to modernize and digitize the motor vehicle registration system, enhancing national safety and security.

According to a statement by Force Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the e-CMR is a sophisticated, real-time online repository of motor vehicle data.

It is designed to aid police investigations and operational activities, particularly in combating vehicle-related crimes such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery.

The shift to a digital system will simplify the documentation and verification processes for vehicle ownership and related transactions.

The statement further explained that, per the directives of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), services such as change of ownership, license number, engine, and chassis/body will become more efficient.

The e-CMR system will ensure the validation of vehicle authenticity and ownership, improve the tracking and recovery of stolen vehicles, and help prevent the purchase of stolen vehicles by unsuspecting buyers.

The statement read, “As part of the efforts of the IG to enhance the security of lives and property, the Nigeria Police Force is set to commence the enforcement of the digitalized Central Motor Registry (e-CMR) within the next 14 days, specifically on the July 29, 2024, to rejuvenate and digitalize the motor vehicle registration system, significantly bolstering our nation’s safety and security framework.

“Following the directives of the IGP, services such as change of ownership, change of license number, change of engine, and change of chassis/body would become seamless as the e-CMR system would ensure the validation of vehicle genuineness and ownership, enhancing the ability to track and recover stolen vehicles effectively, and preventing the purchase of stolen vehicles by innocent buyers.

“Prior to the enforcement itself, the IGP has ordered full publicity of the e-CMR and its enforcement to all members of the public, intimating them of the requirements, processes, and enforcement procedures. Members of the public are urged to obtain the digitalized CMR certificate online.

“The Nigeria Police Force, while seeking the understanding and support of all well-meaning Nigerians and residents on this initiative, remains committed to leveraging technology and strategic approaches to enhance public safety and national security.

“The enforcement of the e-CMR is necessary to ensure a safer and secure environment for vehicle ownership and decimate the trend of vehicle theft by greatly reducing the possibility of selling stolen vehicles in the country. We therefore urge all vehicle owners and users to embrace and key into this initiative promptly for optimum safety and security.”