Nigeria Import Restrictions

by countryaah · Published June 2, 2019 · Updated February 13, 2025

In order to enter Nigeria, certain goods are subject to specific controls and, regardless of their value and quantity, they require the consent of Nigeria government, preferably, license must be obtained prior to passage through the customs, preventing the goods from being retained. On this page, you will see what kinds of items are prohibited from entering the Nigeria, and which items need special documentation before exporting to Nigeria.

Nigeria, located in West Africa, is the continent’s most populous country and has the largest economy in Africa. As one of the biggest economies in sub-Saharan Africa, Nigeria plays a key role in both regional and global trade. The country relies heavily on imports for goods ranging from machinery and equipment to consumer products and pharmaceuticals. Given the size of its economy and the demand for goods, Nigeria has implemented a wide range of import regulations to ensure that products entering the country meet health, safety, and environmental standards, while also protecting local industries and maintaining national security.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), which operates under the Federal Ministry of Finance, is responsible for overseeing the importation of goods into the country. Additionally, other government agencies such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) play critical roles in regulating specific products that may have implications for public health, safety, or the environment.

Nigeria’s import regulations are primarily based on the country’s economic interests, health concerns, and environmental protection goals. These regulations are designed to prevent the entry of harmful or substandard goods, promote local manufacturing, and ensure compliance with international trade agreements. This document will explore the goods that are prohibited from entering Nigeria and the products that require an import license.

Prohibited Items for Import into Nigeria

Nigeria has established a list of goods that are prohibited from being imported into the country. These prohibitions are put in place to safeguard public health, maintain environmental standards, and protect local industries from unfair competition. Goods that pose risks to the population, environment, or economy are banned from entering the country.

Products Harmful to Public Health and Safety

Protecting the health and safety of Nigerians is a key focus of the government’s import regulations. The following categories of goods are prohibited due to the risks they pose to public health:

Illicit Drugs and Narcotics: The importation of illicit drugs and narcotics is strictly prohibited under Nigerian law. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) works in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service to enforce these restrictions. Narcotics such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines, and other synthetic drugs are banned under Nigeria’s Drug Control Act, which is aligned with international drug control conventions. The penalties for attempting to import these drugs include heavy fines, imprisonment, and the confiscation of goods. Nigeria has a zero-tolerance policy for illicit drug trafficking and has stringent measures in place to prevent the entry of harmful substances. This regulation is vital for safeguarding public health and ensuring that illegal drug trade does not take root in the country.
Counterfeit Medicines and Medical Devices: The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) regulates the importation of pharmaceuticals and medical devices to ensure that they meet safety, efficacy, and quality standards. Counterfeit medicines, which may be ineffective, harmful, or even fatal, are banned from entering Nigeria. Medical devices that do not meet Nigerian and international safety standards are also prohibited. The NAFDAC works with international bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure that imported health products meet regulatory requirements. The Nigerian government aims to protect its citizens from the risks posed by substandard or counterfeit health products, and any violation of these regulations can result in the seizure of the goods and legal action against the importer.

Environmentally Harmful Goods

Nigeria is committed to environmental protection and sustainability. To that end, several types of products that could cause environmental harm are prohibited from being imported into the country.

Hazardous Waste and E-Waste: Nigeria has adopted regulations to prevent the importation of hazardous waste and electronic waste (e-waste), including items such as discarded electronics, medical waste, and industrial waste. E-waste contains harmful chemicals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can contaminate the environment and harm public health if not disposed of properly. The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and Nigeria Customs Service work together to regulate the importation of e-waste and hazardous waste materials. The importation of such waste is prohibited under Nigeria’s Hazardous Waste Management Regulations and international agreements such as the Basel Convention. Violators of these regulations face penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and destruction of the imported waste. These restrictions are crucial for safeguarding Nigeria’s environment and preventing the country from becoming a dumping ground for hazardous materials.
Products Derived from Endangered Species: In compliance with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), Nigeria has enacted laws to prevent the importation of products derived from endangered species. These include items such as ivory, exotic animal skins, rare plants, and other wildlife products that contribute to illegal wildlife trafficking. The Nigerian Wildlife and National Parks Service monitors and enforces these regulations to protect endangered species. Any goods derived from endangered species, which violate CITES agreements, are confiscated at customs, and violators face legal action, including fines and imprisonment. This regulation helps preserve Nigeria’s biodiversity and ensures that the international wildlife trade does not threaten the survival of endangered species.

Products Requiring Import Licenses

While many products can be imported into Nigeria freely, there are certain categories of goods that require an import license before they can be brought into the country. These products are subject to additional scrutiny to ensure that they comply with Nigerian laws and international standards, particularly in areas that affect public health, safety, or the environment.

Goods Subject to Import Licensing

Certain goods are subject to import licenses in Nigeria to protect the local economy, public health, and the environment. The following categories of products require import licenses:

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices: As mentioned earlier, NAFDAC regulates the importation of medicines, medical devices, and health-related products. These products require an import license to ensure they meet the safety and quality standards set by Nigerian authorities. Importers must submit detailed documentation that includes the product’s registration details, manufacturing process, clinical trials (for new drugs), and approval from recognized international regulatory bodies, such as the WHO or EMA. The import license ensures that the products are not counterfeit, substandard, or harmful to public health. NAFDAC also inspects the facilities where these products are manufactured to ensure compliance with good manufacturing practices (GMP). Failure to comply with the licensing process can result in the denial of entry for the goods and penalties for the importer.
Agricultural Products and Livestock: The importation of agricultural products, including fruits, vegetables, seeds, livestock, and animal products, is regulated by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. These products require an import license to ensure they meet the country’s phytosanitary and veterinary health standards. The importation of livestock, including cattle, poultry, and other animals, is subject to inspection and certification to ensure that the animals are free from diseases such as avian influenza, foot-and-mouth disease, and other contagious diseases. Similarly, plant products must pass inspections to ensure they are free from pests and diseases that could threaten Nigeria’s agricultural industry. The Ministry requires health certificates, quarantine clearance, and other relevant documentation to ensure that imported agricultural products do not introduce harmful pathogens. Importers of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) must also obtain special approval to ensure these products are safe for the environment and human consumption.

Environmentally Regulated Goods

Nigeria enforces several environmental protection measures that require an import license for goods that may have an environmental impact. These goods must comply with the country’s sustainability and environmental standards before being allowed entry.

Chemicals and Hazardous Materials: The importation of chemicals and hazardous substances, such as industrial chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers, is regulated by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), and the Federal Ministry of Environment. Importers must obtain a license to bring these goods into the country and submit detailed documentation about their chemical composition, usage, safety protocols, and disposal methods. Hazardous chemicals that are toxic, persistent, or bioaccumulative are subject to additional scrutiny and may be restricted or banned. The government ensures that chemicals do not pose risks to human health, wildlife, or the environment. The licensing process for hazardous chemicals includes safety assessments and environmental impact studies to ensure compliance with national and international environmental laws.
Plastic and Packaging Materials: As part of its efforts to reduce plastic waste and encourage sustainability, Nigeria has introduced regulations to manage the importation of plastic goods, particularly single-use plastics and non-biodegradable packaging materials. The Federal Ministry of Environment regulates the importation of plastic products and packaging to ensure compliance with national recycling standards and waste management practices. Importers must provide documentation demonstrating that their products are recyclable or biodegradable. The government encourages the use of eco-friendly materials and the reduction of plastic waste in landfills and the environment. Products that do not meet these environmental standards are subject to restrictions or additional fees. The import license ensures that these goods comply with Nigeria’s waste management and sustainability goals.

Regulated Consumer Goods

Several consumer goods in Nigeria are subject to import licensing to ensure they meet local safety, quality, and environmental standards. These goods are often regulated to protect consumers and ensure that products sold in the country are safe and environmentally responsible.

Motor Vehicles and Spare Parts: The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) regulate the importation of motor vehicles and spare parts to ensure they comply with local safety, environmental, and quality standards. Vehicles must meet Nigerian road safety requirements and emissions standards before they are allowed entry. The government also inspects used vehicles to ensure they meet roadworthiness standards. Spare parts for motor vehicles must meet safety requirements to ensure compatibility with local vehicles and infrastructure. Importers must provide documentation proving that their vehicles and spare parts meet these standards before they can receive an import license. Used vehicles are subject to additional scrutiny, including safety inspections and emissions testing.
Electronics and Household Appliances: The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) regulates the importation of electronics and household appliances to ensure they comply with Nigerian safety and energy efficiency standards. Products such as refrigerators, air conditioners, and washing machines must meet electrical safety standards to prevent electrical hazards or fire risks. Additionally, electronics and household appliances must meet energy efficiency standards to reduce electricity consumption and promote sustainable energy use. Importers must provide documentation proving that their products have been tested and certified to meet these safety and energy efficiency guidelines. Non-compliant products may be rejected at customs, and importers may face fines or additional scrutiny. These regulations ensure that consumers have access to safe and energy-efficient products.