Before diving into the detailed steps, this guide summarises how a Nigerian company can achieve ISO certification through NiNAS-accredited bodies. You will learn how to:
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Select the appropriate ISO standard and understand its core requirements.
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Prepare your management system documentation and processes.
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Choose and apply to a NiNAS-accredited certification body.
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Navigate the two-stage audit process.
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Estimate costs, including typical consultant fees.
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Maintain your certification through surveillance and recertification audits.
1. Selecting Your ISO Standard & Core Requirements
| ISO Standard | Focus Area | Core Requirement Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| ISO 9001 | Quality Management System (QMS) | Quality policy, process mapping, internal audits, corrective actions |
| ISO 14001 | Environmental Management System | Environmental policy, aspect‐impact analysis, compliance obligations |
| ISO 45001 | Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) | Risk assessment, hazard identification, safety objectives |
| ISO 27001 | Information Security Management | ISMS scope, risk treatment plan, Statement of Applicability |
| ISO 22000 | Food Safety Management System | HACCP plan, prerequisite programmes (PRPs), traceability |
Tip: Conduct a gap analysis against your chosen standard to identify missing elements before documentation begins.
2. Preparing Your Management System
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Document Development
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Draft a Management Manual, policies, procedures, and process flows that address every clause of your chosen ISO standard.
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Training & Awareness
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Train employees on system requirements and their roles within it.
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Internal Audits
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Perform audits to uncover nonconformities; record findings and implement corrective actions.
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Management Review
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Senior leadership conducts periodic reviews of system performance, resources, and improvement opportunities.
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3. Choosing a NiNAS-Accredited Certification Body
The Nigeria National Accreditation System (NiNAS) accredits certification bodies (CBs) in accordance with ISO/IEC 17011 to ensure impartiality and competence. Below are some prominent NiNAS-accredited CBs you can engage:
| Certification Body | Website |
|---|---|
| SGS Nigeria | sgs.com/en-ng/services/iso-9001-certification |
| Bureau Veritas Nigeria | bureauveritas.com/ng/en/services/certification |
| DQS Nigeria | dqs-group.com/en-ng/certification.html |
| Paragon International | paragon-intl.com/iso-certification/ |
| Certification International Nigeria | certification-intl.com.ng/ |
| BQSR Certification | bqsrcert.com/iso-certification/ |
Verify Accreditation: Always confirm each body’s scope on the NiNAS directory before applying ninas.ng.
4. Application & Audit Procedure
Step 1: Submit Application & Scope Definition
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Complete the CB’s Application Form, specifying your sites, processes, and chosen ISO standard(s).
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Attach your documented management system for Stage 1 audit planning.
Step 2: Stage 1 Audit (Documentation Review)
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The auditor reviews your documentation to check alignment with the standard.
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Any gaps are identified so you can implement corrections before Stage 2.
Step 3: Stage 2 Audit (On-Site Assessment)
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Auditors visit your premises to verify implementation of documented processes.
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Evidence is collected via interviews, observations, and records review.
Step 4: Corrective Actions & Certification Decision
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Submit Corrective Action Plans for any nonconformities found.
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Upon successful closure, the CB issues your ISO certificate, valid for three years.
5. Cost Breakdown
| Cost Element | Estimated Range (₦) |
|---|---|
| Certification Audit Fees | ₦800,000 – ₦6,000,000 (based on size) |
| Internal Preparation (Training, Internal Audits) | ₦300,000 – ₦1,000,000 |
| Consultant Fees | ₦1,500,000 – ₦3,500,000 (see below) |
Note: Certification bodies do not usually publish fixed fees; obtain bespoke quotes.
Consultant Fee Packages
According to market offerings on:
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Basic (ISO 9001 only): ₦1,500,000
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Standard (ISO 9001 & ISO 14001): ₦2,500,000
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Premium (ISO 9001, ISO 14001 & ISO 45001): ₦3,500,000
Engaging a consultant can streamline the process by handling gap analysis, documentation, and audit readiness.
6. Maintaining Your Certification
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Surveillance Audits: Conducted annually to ensure continued conformity.
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Recertification Audit: A full re-audit every three years, mirroring the initial Stage 2 audit.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
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How long does the process take?
Typically 6–12 months, depending on your readiness and audit scheduling. -
Can audits be remote?
Some CBs offer remote/document reviews for Stage 1 or parts of Stage 2, subject to NiNAS approval. -
Is ISO certification mandatory?
No—voluntary, but often required by regulators, clients, or tender specifications. -
Can small businesses get certified?
Yes—standards are scalable to any organisation size. -
What if I fail the audit?
You will receive nonconformity reports, implement corrective actions, and the CB will verify before certification.
By following this Nigeria-focused, step-by-step roadmap—selecting the right standard, preparing your system, engaging a NiNAS-accredited CB, and budgeting for all costs—you can confidently achieve ISO certification and demonstrate your company’s commitment to excellence.
