10 Essential Legal Documents for Manufacturing and Exporting from Nigeria

There is a thriving manufacturing sector and a booming export market in Nigeria. However, navigating the legalities of exporting goods can be a complex process. To ensure a smooth and successful journey, you must obtain a specific set of legal documents before you can manufacture and export from Nigeria. This article explores the most important documents you’ll need to acquire:

1. Company Registration Documents:

• Certificate of Incorporation: This is issued by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). It essentially proves your company’s legal existence.
• Memorandum of Association (MEMART): This document outlines your company’s objectives, share capital, and limitations of liability.
• Articles of Association (ARTICLES): This document outlines your company’s internal governance structure, including crucial elements like procedures for meetings, voting rights, and appointment of directors.

2. Export Registration Certificate:

• This is issued by the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC). It is a certificate that verifies your company’s legitimacy as an exporter. It also comes in handy for accessing certain export incentives and benefits.

3. Product Certification:

• These certifications ensure your products meet specific quality and safety standards for export. The exact certification to acquire depends on the product category. They can be obtained from the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) or the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). 

4. Export Permit:

• This is also dependent on the product category. For agricultural products, the Ministry of Agriculture may require an export permit.

5. Commercial Invoice:

• This document documents the transaction between you (the exporter) and the importer. It typically outlines specifics like product descriptions, quantities, unit prices, total value, and payment terms.

6. Packing List:

• This document is a detailed breakdown of your shipment. It includes notes like item descriptions, quantities, weight, and packaging details. It is essential for customs clearance at the destination port.

7. Certificate of Origin:

• This is issued by the chamber of commerce or a similar designated authority. It verifies the country of origin of your products. 

8. Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill (AWB):

• This is issued by the shipping line or airline. It serves document serves as a contract of carriage for your goods. It outlines the shipment information, terms of transport, and equally serves as a receipt for the goods.

9. Marine Insurance Certificate (Optional):

• This is not mandatory but highly recommended. It protects your financial interests against loss or damage to your goods during transport.

10. Export Declaration Form (NXP):

• This declares your intention to export goods. It is filled and submitted online submitted through the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) portal. It provides details about the shipment and facilitates customs clearance.

For manufacturers and exporters in Nigeria, securing the essential legal documents and understanding the regulatory environment is a non-negotiable. We hope this article gives you the clarity on how to do the needful. 

Please note that this article is for informational purposes only. Always consult with relevant government agencies and professional advisors for specific export procedures and requirements related to your products and target markets.