The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has launched a nationwide clampdown on fake third-party motor insurance certificates, as many motorists are still found to be operating with counterfeit documents.

The move followed a directive from the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) mandating strict enforcement of valid third-party vehicle insurance across the country.

Speaking during a raid at the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) Headquarters in Mabushi, Abuja, on Wednesday, NAICOM officials—working alongside security agencies—confiscated forged insurance documents allegedly being issued to unsuspecting motorists.

Adeyemi Abubakar, Head of Market Development at NAICOM, told reporters that the joint operation was designed to rid the system of fraudulent operators producing fake policies.

“There was a directive of the IG of Police that all third-party motor vehicles must be properly insured. In carrying out this directive, we noticed that a lot of the third-party documents in circulation are fake,” Abubakar said.

He warned that motorists with counterfeit certificates are left without cover in the event of accidents, despite paying for insurance. “People’s lives are being threatened because they pay for insurance but end up with fake certificates that provide no cover when they need to make claims,” he explained.

To curb the menace, NAICOM has introduced digital verification measures, including a mobile app and unique codes, enabling motorists to confirm the authenticity of their insurance instantly.

Abubakar advised vehicle owners to obtain policies only from licensed insurance companies and accredited agents, cautioning that buying from unauthorised sources leaves motorists exposed and financially stranded during claims settlement.