The Nigeria Police Force will officially commence enforcement of its reactivated Tinted Glass Permit (TGP) system today, Monday 1st June 2025, concluding a 30-day grace period granted to drivers for compliance with the new regulations.
This initiative, ordered by Inspector General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, forms part of a wider strategy aimed at bolstering national security and mitigating criminal activities often associated with vehicles featuring darkened windows.
The digital permit system, launched last month, mandates that drivers apply online via the Police Specialized Services Automation Project (POSSAP) portal at possap.gov.ng. Applicants are required to submit personal and vehicle information, undergo biometric verification, and pass security checks prior to receiving approval.
The reintroduction of the tinted glass permit was prompted by numerous complaints from motorists regarding harassment by law enforcement, alongside worries about the misuse of tinted vehicles in crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and “one-chance” scams.
Heavily tinted windows have historically posed security challenges by limiting police visibility during routine stops and patrols. The new system seeks to differentiate between legitimate users—such as those with medical conditions needing reduced sunlight exposure—and criminals who exploit tinted vehicles to avoid detection. Successful applicants will receive a QR-coded digital permit, which officers can quickly verify during traffic stops.
Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi underscored that this policy intends to foster transparency and eliminate extortion, ensuring that only law-abiding citizens can legally utilise tinted windows while complicating matters for criminals attempting to conceal their activities.
The police have also warned that officers found extorting motorists under the pretense of enforcing the tinted glass policy will face stringent disciplinary measures.
While some Nigerians view the digital permit system as a positive step towards reducing police harassment, others perceive it as an additional bureaucratic obstacle and a potential means of public exploitation.
For example, several users have reported inefficiencies with the portal, claiming that their applications often fail to process. “I’ve filled out my form more than twice, and after submission, nothing comes of it,” lamented Caleb Agbaje.
The application process requires submitting personal and vehicle details, uploading necessary documents such as the National Identification Number (NIN) and Tax Identification Number (TIN), completing biometric verification at designated centres, and paying a processing fee. Approval is typically granted within 72 hours, after which applicants can download their digital permits. With enforcement now in effect, the police have deployed monitoring teams nationwide to ensure compliance. Motorists are advised to keep their permits accessible, either in print or on mobile devices, to avoid delays during checks.
IGP Egbetokun reiterated the police force’s dedication to leveraging technology for efficient policing and encouraged citizens to cooperate with officers for the sake of public safety. The NPF has also invited motorists with questions to reach out to the POSSAP support desk or visit their nearest police division for assistance.
