Food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals and packaged water are not covered by SONCAP. They are regulated by Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Every product must be registered before import, through a Nigerian company holding your power of attorney, and backed by evidence of GMP at your Indian factory. Global Approbation prepares the dossier and coordinates the process.
NAFDAC at a Glance
| Regulator | National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) |
|---|---|
| Products | Food and beverages, drugs, vaccines, medical devices and IVDs, cosmetics, chemicals, packaged water |
| Local holder | A company incorporated in Nigeria (CAC-registered) that holds the registration |
| Authorisation | Notarised power of attorney from the foreign manufacturer |
| Factory | Evidence of GMP; NAFDAC may inspect the foreign facility, and current GMP certification can reduce this |
| Process | Permit to import samples, then laboratory analysis and dossier review, then registration |
| Validity | Typically 5 years, then renewal |
Products We Support
- Rice, spices & packaged foods
- Beverages & snacks
- Generic medicines
- Ayurvedic & herbal products
- Cosmetics & toiletries
- Medical devices & diagnostics
- Detergents & chemicals
- Veterinary products
How Global Approbation Handles NAFDAC
- Category & pathway. Product classification and NAFDAC directorate.
- Local holder. Guidance on appointing your Nigerian registration holder and preparing the power of attorney.
- Dossier. Certificates of analysis, GMP evidence, labels and artwork, stability data (for drugs), manufacturing information.
- Samples & lab. Sample import permit and laboratory analysis coordinated.
- Registration & renewal. Approval tracked; renewal planned before expiry.
NAFDAC: Frequently Asked Questions
Is NAFDAC the same as SONCAP?
No. SONCAP (SON) covers general manufactured goods. NAFDAC covers food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals and packaged water.
Can an Indian company hold the NAFDAC registration itself?
Registrations are held by a company incorporated in Nigeria, acting under a notarised power of attorney from the manufacturer.
Will NAFDAC inspect my factory in India?
NAFDAC requires GMP evidence and may inspect foreign facilities. A current GMP certificate can reduce or waive the inspection, depending on the product.
How long is NAFDAC registration valid?
Typically five years, after which it must be renewed.
Regulations, standards and deadlines change. Scope, testing route and timelines are confirmed product by product after our applicability review. Global Approbation is a consultancy and does not itself issue certificates; approvals are granted by the relevant authority, accredited laboratory or certification body.