Import planning should begin before the supplier ships. Identify the Nigerian importer of record, classify each product, check prohibition or restriction status, calculate duty and tax, and map every product approval.

For SONCAP-regulated goods, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria describes a Product Certificate used for Form M and a SONCAP Certificate required for customs clearance. Certification may involve testing and inspection in the country of supply. Product Certificate 1 is for one shipment, while registered and licensed routes are described as valid for one year.

From 27 March 2026, SON required affected import-permit applications and activation of SONCAP certificates for Form M, PAAR and clearance to use the National Single Window. Data across certificates, Form M, invoice, packing list, transport documents and customs declaration must match.

Other product regulators

Food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, packaged water, chemicals and related products may require NAFDAC registration or import authorisation. Telecommunications equipment may need NCC type approval. An exclusion from SONCAP is not an exemption from all Nigerian approval.

In August 2026 the FCCPC directed manufacturers, importers, distributors and retailers to withdraw goods that did not comply with applicable labelling requirements. Its notice highlighted production and expiry dates, batch numbers, manufacturer details, ingredients, allergens and country of origin. Labels should be approved before mass production.

Exporting from Nigeria

An exporter should assess registration with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, product and destination standards, e-Form NXP and export-proceeds requirements. The contract should allocate inspection, origin, freight, insurance, rejection and documentary responsibilities.

Clean import sequence

Classify the SKU; identify regulators; obtain product registration or Product Certificate; approve labels; open Form M; complete offshore conformity; obtain and activate the SONCAP Certificate where applicable; prepare shipment originals; submit for PAAR; file the customs declaration; and retain assessment, duty and release evidence.