Following the reconfiguration and commencement of the electronic central motor registry registration process (e-CMR), the Nigeria Police Force has outlined the benefits and effectiveness of this innovative initiative. The e-CMR is designed to enhance the safety and security of all vehicles, including motorcycles, by compiling data submitted by vehicle owners and using it to flag stolen vehicles.
The e-CMR system provides a comprehensive, real-time database accessible to dedicated officers on their tablets. This database will be instrumental in curbing vehicular crimes, preventing multiple vehicle registrations, and collating biometric and other data of vehicle owners. This will add significant value to the national database and the incident report portal generated from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, contributing to overall security.
Contrary to circulating rumors and misconceptions, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) clarifies that the e-CMR is not a revenue-generating platform. Instead, it is an initiative aimed at digitalizing policing for greater effectiveness and enhancing the safety of lives and property for all residents of Nigeria.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has ordered an immediate suspension of the proposed enforcement of the e-CMR, which was initially scheduled to commence on July 29, 2024. This suspension aims to provide ample time for public education and awareness about the process, benefits, and effectiveness of the e-CMR in addressing vehicle-related crimes and protecting individual and corporate vehicle ownership.
The public is encouraged to obtain the digitalized CMR certificate online at https://cmris.npf.gov.ng. For further inquiries, individuals can contact the 24/7 hotline (02018870133), the CMR Command Centre at FHQ Abuja (08117777666, 09169892000), and FHQ Annex Lagos (08117777555, 09169891000). Technical support is also available via email at cmrtech@npfcmr.ng.
In light of this, the NPF seeks the understanding and support of all Nigerians and residents to embrace the e-CMR system. The IGP also instructs all police officers to refrain from demanding e-CMR certificates. Any officer found extorting or exploiting the public under the pretense of enforcing the e-CMR requirement will face strict sanctions, as the enforcement by dedicated officers has been suspended until further notice.
