Importing items that people consume or apply to their skin is a serious responsibility. In Nigeria, this responsibility is overseen by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Whether you are bringing in processed food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, or chemicals, you cannot bypass NAFDAC.
In early 2026, the NAFDAC process underwent a major shift due to the migration to the B’Odogwu platform and the National Single Window. This guide explains the modern process for obtaining your import permit without the headache of regulatory delays.
The Core Role of NAFDAC
NAFDAC regulates to ensure safety. Their mandate covers:
- Food and Water
- Drugs and Vaccines
- Medical Devices
- Cosmetics and Detergents
- Chemicals (Industrial and Agricultural)
For a general overview of trade compliance, you should read our Beginner’s Guide to International Trade Compliance in Nigeria.
The Three Types of NAFDAC Permits
Before you apply, you must know which permit you need:
- Import Permit for Bulk Raw Materials: For manufacturers who need ingredients to produce goods locally.
- Import Permit for Clinical Trial/Research: For specialized medical or scientific use.
- Global Listing for Supermarket Items: For retailers importing a wide variety of small-quantity consumer goods.
Most commercial importers will start with Product Registration. You cannot get an import permit for a finished product (like a specific brand of energy drink) until that product has been registered and assigned a NAFDAC Number.
Step-by-Step Process for 2026
- Company Vetting: Your facility (warehouse) must be inspected and your company registered on the NAFDAC e-Navigation portal.
- Product Registration: Submit samples for laboratory analysis. If they pass, you get a NAFDAC Registration Number (valid for 5 years).
- Application for Permit: Once registered, you apply for an “Annual Import Permit” via the Single Window.
- Payment: All fees are paid through Remita.
- Digital Approval: In 2026, approved permits are automatically pushed to the Customs system, allowing you to open your Form M.
To understand the financial side of these imports, check our Import Export Nigeria Guide on Laws and Duties.
Special 2026 Dispensation Note
Due to system upgrades in early 2026, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) recently allowed a temporary window where expired NAFDAC licenses (those that expired Dec 31, 2025) could still be used for Form M processing until late February 2026. This highlights the importance of staying updated with current trade regulations.
Practical Example: The Cosmetic Startup
Imagine you want to import a new organic face cream from South Korea. You cannot just ship it. First, you must send samples to NAFDAC in Nigeria for testing. Once they confirm the ingredients are safe, they give you a NAFDAC Number. You then apply for an import permit. When the goods arrive, NAFDAC officers at the port will take more samples to ensure the shipment matches the registered version. Only then can you clear the goods.
Documents Needed for NAFDAC Imports
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Analysis | Shows the chemical breakdown of the batch. |
| Certificate of Free Sale | Proves the product is sold legally in the home country. |
| Power of Attorney | Gives you the right to represent the foreign manufacturer. |
| Evidence of Trademark | Protects the brand name in Nigeria. |
Summary Tips for Success
NAFDAC is very strict about labeling. All products must have:
- The NAFDAC Reg. No.
- Manufacture and Expiry dates.
- English language instructions.
- Batch number and manufacturer’s address.
If your labels are only in a foreign language (like Mandarin or French) without English translations, NAFDAC will seize the goods. For the most recent updates on dossier submissions, always check the official NAFDAC website.