1️⃣ Introduction
Nigeria’s Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Programme (SONCAP) is a mandatory customs clearance certification for all regulated products entering Nigeria.
The 2025 update introduces an electronic certification system, improving traceability, preventing forgery, and expediting customs clearance.
| Aspect | 2025 Key Points |
|---|---|
| Certification Structure | Two-step process: obtain the Product Certificate (PC), then apply for the SONCAP Certificate (SC) for each shipment. |
| Core New Regulation | Implementation of an electronic certification system integrated with customs (NICIS). |
| Application Entity | Exporters apply for PC and SC, while Form M is handled locally by the Nigerian importer. |
| Timeline | PC review: 2–4 weeks; SC issuance: ~1 business day after full document submission. |
| Non-Compliance Risk | Goods without valid SONCAP certificates will be detained or destroyed by customs upon arrival. |
2️⃣ Step 1: Obtain Product Certificate (PC)
The Product Certificate (PC) proves that your product complies with Nigerian or relevant international standards.
There are three types of PC certificates, depending on shipment frequency and product category:
| Certificate Type | Characteristics & Applicable Scenarios | Core Application Documents | Inspection Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| PC1 (Unregistered) | Valid 6 months; single use; inspection required. Ideal for low-frequency exports. | Application form, CNAS lab test report. | Every shipment. |
| PC2 (Registered) | Valid 1 year; reusable; inspection for ≥40% of shipments. Suitable for most exporters. | Application form, CNAS lab report, ISO 9001. | 40% of shipments. |
| PC3 (Licensed) | Valid 1 year; requires factory audit; for high-risk, frequent exports. | Application form, CNAS lab report, ISO 9001, audit report. | Every 6 months. |
Key Step: Product Testing
Before applying for PC, products must be tested at a CNAS/ISO 17025-accredited laboratory to obtain a compliant test report.
Testing scope includes safety, EMC, and environmental performance.
3️⃣ Step 2: Importer Applies for Form M
After obtaining the PC, the Nigerian importer must apply for Form M via their local bank or the Nigeria Trade Portal.
Purpose: Serves as import authorization for customs declaration.
Validity: 180 days (extendable).
Note: Form M must reference the exact same product details as the PC and SC.
4️⃣ Step 3: Apply for SONCAP Certificate (SC)
After shipment, the exporter or importer applies for the SC certificate — the legal document for customs clearance.
Core Required Documents:
SC Application Form (stamped)
Statement of Conformity (signed & stamped)
Valid PC Certificate
Form M
Power of Attorney (English version)
Commercial Invoice & Packing List
Bill of Lading (copy)
Processing Time: Usually issued within 1 working day once all documents are verified.
5️⃣ Product Scope
Almost all imported products require SONCAP, except:
Food and agricultural products
Pharmaceuticals
Certain medical devices
Military and government imports
6️⃣ Technical Standards & Localization Requirements
Safety: Must comply with Nigerian Standards (NIS) or IEC standards (e.g., IEC 60335-1 for household appliances).
EMC: Must comply with CISPR 32.
Localization: Must support 230V/50Hz voltage and use BS 1363 (3-pin) or BS 546 (round-pin) plug.
Labeling: Products or packaging must display “SONCAP Certified” and importer address.
7️⃣ Plan Early
PC review takes 2–4 weeks; always start early to avoid shipment delays.
8️⃣ Ensure Document Consistency
All product details — name, model, specs, test report, PC, SC, and Form M — must match exactly.
Any discrepancy can lead to delays or rejection.
9️⃣ Consequences of Non-Compliance
Products without valid SONCAP certificates will be detained or destroyed by Nigerian customs.
All storage, inspection, and penalty fees are borne by the trader.
To save time and cost, if your product already has valid CE or CB test reports, SON may accept them as part of the PC application, avoiding redundant testing.
Q1: How long is the SONCAP certificate valid?
A1: The PC certificate is valid for 6 months to 1 year depending on the type. The SC certificate applies per shipment.
Q2: Can I apply for both PC and SC as an exporter?
A2: Yes. Exporters apply for PC and SC, but the Form M must be processed by the Nigerian importer.
Q3: Are all electronics required to use the British BS 1363 plug?
A3: Yes. All electronic products must meet Nigeria’s localization requirement — 230V/50Hz voltage and BS plug standard.
Q4: What happens if documents don’t match exactly?
A4: Any mismatch in names, models, or specifications can cause delays, extra fees, or certificate rejection.
Q5: Can my product be exempted from SONCAP?
A5: Only a few categories (e.g., food, drugs, low-voltage electronics <50V) can apply for exemption through SON’s official system.
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Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com
Tel: +86 13534225140
Website: www.blueasialabs.com
We provide professional SONCAP, SNI, and international certification consulting.
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