WATCH THE VIDEO HERE Starting a food or drug-related business in Nigeria comes with a few challenges, one of which is NAFDAC registration. Many business owners shy away from it, thinking it’s overly complicated or costly. Others, unfortunately, try to bypass it, hoping to save time or money. But if you’re serious about growing a legitimate business in this space, NAFDAC certification isn’t something you can skip. In fact, not getting NAFDAC certification could lead to massive set back in your business: Like fines, your products being confiscated, or even having your business shut down entirely. Not to mention, consumers won’t trust a brand without that little NAFDAC number on the package. But don’t stress out yet! Yes, the process involves a few steps, but I’m here to break it down for you in a way that’s easy to understand and, most importantly, doable. The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) was set up to make sure that the food, drugs, and other consumables we use daily in Nigeria are safe. Unfortunately, there’s a long history of fake drugs and substandard products circulating in the country, which led to severe public health issues. The tipping point came in 1990 when over 100 children died after taking contaminated paracetamol syrup. This event prompted the creation of NAFDAC in 1992. Since then, NAFDAC has been the gatekeeper, ensuring that the consumables produced, imported, or distributed in Nigeria meet safety and quality standards. So, if you’re selling anything that falls into these categories, NAFDAC registration isn’t just a requirement—it’s a way to build trust with your customers and protect them from harm. Let’s get into the process and what you need to get started: Before you even think about starting the NAFDAC registration process, you need to gather some important documents. The type of documents you need will depend on whether your business is micro-scale, small-scale, or larger. But in any case, here’s a breakdown: You’ll need everything listed above for micro-scale businesses, plus a few more documents: Once you have all these documents in hand, you’re ready to start the actual application. This part is Simple. Go to the NAFDAC website and download the registration form and guidelines. You can also visit any NAFDAC state office if you prefer to pick up the form in person. When submitting, make sure you include all the following documents: At this point, it’s a good idea to request payment advice from a NAFDAC desk officer to know exactly how much you’ll be paying. NAFDAC fees depend on your product and scale, so getting the payment details right is crucial. You’ll make your payment through Remita, and NAFDAC’s Accounts Department will give you the receipt. Make sure you Hold on to that— you’ll need it later! Once you’ve submitted your documents and made the necessary payments, NAFDAC will schedule an inspection of your production facility. This is the most important part because they’ll check if you’re adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Good Hygiene Practices (GHP). These practices ensure your facility is clean, safe, and efficient. During the inspection, NAFDAC will also collect product samples for laboratory testing. If your facility passes the inspection and your samples meet their standards, you’re almost at the finish line! After your product passes both the facility inspection and laboratory analysis, NAFDAC will notify you that your registration certificate is ready for collection. From the time you submit your documents, the entire process usually takes about 90 working days. It’s important to remember that this isn’t just a formality—getting NAFDAC certification shows that your products are safe and meet Nigeria’s standards for quality and consumer protection. NAFDAC takes labeling seriously and for a good reason. Your product label isn’t just about branding—it’s about giving consumers the information they need. Here’s what your label needs to include: Getting these details right on your label is crucial, as NAFDAC won’t approve your product without it. Let’s talk money. The fees you’ll need to pay depend on your product and the services required. Here’s a quick look at some of the common fees: Clinical trial fees The NAFDAC registration process might seem difficult, but it’s necessary if you’re serious about building a reputable and safe business in Nigeria. From protecting consumers to avoiding legal troubles, NAFDAC certification is your ticket to a trustworthy brand that consumers can rely on. So, take a deep breath, gather your documents, and start the process. It might take a little time, but once you’re certified, you’ll be setting your business up for long-term success in Nigeria’s competitive market.Why Do You Need NAFDAC Certification?
Step-by-Step Guide to NAFDAC Registration for Your Business
1. Prepare the Required Documents
For Micro-Scale Businesses:
For Small-Scale Businesses:
2. Getting the NAFDAC Registration Form
3. Submitting Your Documents
4. Facility Inspection & Sampling
5. Product Approval and Certification
What Should Be On Your Product Label?
NAFDAC Registration Fees
For product variants
Conclusion: Why NAFDAC Is Key to Your Business’ Success
For more details on registration, check out the official NAFDAC website.