The registration of imported food products in Nigeria is essential for compliance with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) regulations.
Any food products intended for manufacture, sale, distribution, or use within Nigeria must go through this rigorous registration process to ensure they meet the country’s safety, labeling, and quality standards.
This comprehensive guide outlines the step-by-step procedure for registering imported food products in Nigeria, from initial application to receiving approval.
We will address common FAQs and dispel misconceptions, making it easier for importers to navigate this vital process.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to NAFDAC Registration
- Step-by-Step Procedure for Registering Imported Food Products
- Documentation Requirements
- Labeling and Compliance
- Import Permit Issuance
- Product Analysis and Approval Meeting
- Issuance of Notification of Registration
- Tariffs and Fees
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Common Misconceptions about NAFDAC Registration
Introduction to NAFDAC Registration
NAFDAC, established under Act CAP N1 (LFN) 2004, oversees the regulation of food products in Nigeria.
Importers must complete the NAFDAC registration process to ensure compliance and avoid penalties. Registration not only ensures product safety but also builds consumer trust.
Step-by-Step Procedure for Registering Imported Food Products
Step 1: Application Submission
- Submit a written application on the company’s letterhead to the Director-General of NAFDAC, addressed to the Director, Food Registration & Regulatory Affairs (FR&R) Directorate, NAFDAC Office in Lagos.
- Include the product’s common and brand names in the application letter.
- Complete an online application form through the NAPAMS platform.
- Each product requires a separate application form.
Step 2: Documentation Submission
- Following application submission, you will need to provide a comprehensive set of documents, which must be originals or notarised copies as specified by NAFDAC. The documents include:
- Notarised Declaration – A sworn statement verifying the authenticity of your application.
- Power of Attorney or Contract Manufacturing Agreement – If you represent an international manufacturer, a Power of Attorney grants you authority for registration and trademark use.
- Certificate of Manufacture and Free Sale – Issued by a regulatory body from the product’s country of origin.
- Comprehensive Certificate of Analysis – Documenting product details such as brand name, batch number, and quality assurance results.
- Business Incorporation Evidence – From the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
- Label Artwork and Trademark Registration Evidence – Ensure the trademark aligns with the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment guidelines.
- Submit all documentation to NAFDAC’s Isolo, Lagos office or any other NAFDAC location for those outside Lagos.
Step 3: Import Permit Issuance
- After screening the documentation, NAFDAC issues an Import Permit for the product, granting permission to import samples for further analysis.
Step 4: Submission of Products for Laboratory Analysis
- Provide laboratory samples, along with:
- Proof of payment to NAFDAC.
- Certificate of Analysis from the testing laboratory.
- Evidence of submission for product vetting.
Step 5: Product Approval Meeting
- Once the product has passed documentation screening and lab testing, NAFDAC holds a Product Approval Meeting. Here, compliant labels are reviewed, and adjustments are requested if necessary.
Step 6: Issuance of Notification of Registration
- Approved products receive a Notification of Registration, valid for five years, while products needing adjustments receive a compliance directive.
Documentation Requirements
Proper documentation is crucial for the successful registration of imported food products in Nigeria. Key documents include:
- Notarised Declaration
- Power of Attorney (if applicable)
- Contract Manufacturing Agreement
- Certificate of Manufacture and Free Sale
- Certificate of Analysis
- Evidence of Business Incorporation
- Trademark Registration Proof
- Label Artwork and Design
Each document must be notarised in the country of origin or authenticated by a relevant Nigerian or ECOWAS/ Commonwealth body if no Nigerian embassy exists in the manufacturing country.
Labeling and Compliance
NAFDAC requires all food product labels to meet certain standards:
- Labels must be clear, accurate, and provide complete product information.
- The label design must comply with NAFDAC’s Food Labeling Regulations and, if applicable, the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes.
Import Permit Issuance
Upon successful review of initial documents, NAFDAC issues an Import Permit to authorize sample submission for product vetting and laboratory analysis.
Product Analysis and Approval Meeting
Once a product passes initial vetting and label inspection, samples undergo laboratory testing. NAFDAC then conducts an Approval Meeting to finalise the product registration decision.
Issuance of Notification of Registration
NAFDAC grants a Notification of Registration for products that comply fully with all requirements. This certificate, valid for five years, authorises the product’s sale in Nigeria.
Tariffs and Fees
Tariffs and fees associated with food product registration include:
- Application Fee – Based on the product type and volume.
- Inspection and Analysis Fees – Covering GMP inspection, label vetting, and laboratory testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does NAFDAC registration take?
- NAFDAC estimates around 120 working days for the registration process, assuming prompt responses to inquiries and no major compliance issues.
2. Can I submit multiple products in one application?
- No, each product requires a separate application.
3. Is a Power of Attorney required if I am the manufacturer?
- No, it’s only required if you are representing a foreign manufacturer.
4. What happens if I don’t respond to NAFDAC’s inquiries within 90 days?
- Failure to respond within 90 working days results in automatic closure of the application.
5. Does product registration allow advertising?
- No, registration does not permit advertising. You’ll need to apply for a separate advertising permit.
Common Misconceptions about NAFDAC Registration
- My product is approved in other countries; it should be automatically approved in Nigeria.
- Not true; all food products must meet NAFDAC’s specific requirements.
- The registration fee guarantees approval.
- Filing an application and paying fees do not ensure registration. NAFDAC requires thorough vetting before approval.
- NAFDAC registration lasts indefinitely.
- Product registration is valid for five years. Renewal is necessary before the expiration date.
- NAFDAC only inspects once during initial registration.
- NAFDAC conducts routine inspections to ensure ongoing compliance.
Conclusion
Registering imported food products with NAFDAC is essential for legal compliance and consumer safety.
By following these procedures, importers can avoid delays, penalties, and product disqualification. Proper documentation, accurate labeling, and adherence to guidelines ensure a smooth registration process.
This guide provides all the information importers need to successfully register their products and build trust within the Nigerian market.
