Resources · Country policies
NAFDAC registration guide: what food, cosmetics and drugs need to enter Nigeria
The scope of NAFDAC product registration in Nigeria, who applies, the online process, the new timelines from 2025 and import permits.
About 2 min readContent checked on
Food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals, drinking water and similar must be registered with NAFDAC and have an import permit before entering Nigeria. Applications go through the NAPAMS online system. From 1 May 2025 the timeline for food registration is 120 working days for MSMEs and 180 for others, and 120 working days for cosmetics.
Information updated: 2026-10-03
Scope
- Food and beverages
- Drugs and health supplements
- Cosmetics and personal care products
- Medical devices
- Chemicals
- Packaged drinking water
Process
- Decide the applicant: usually a company registered in Nigeria.
- Apply on NAPAMS, uploading product information, labels, manufacturer details and so on.
- Document review, with sample testing or manufacturer inspection where needed.
- Once the registration certificate is issued, apply for the import permit.
- Prepare import documents as required for each import.
Timing and points to note
- Timelines from 1 May 2025: food 120 working days (MSMEs) or 180 working days (others); cosmetics 120 working days.
- Once NAFDAC raises a query, the applicant must reply within 90 working days or the application is closed.
- Labelling: English label, product name, ingredients, net content, manufacturing and expiry dates, manufacturer and importer details, etc.
NAFDAC registration takes a long time. Plan ahead for products you'll sell long term; it doesn't suit one-off trial orders.