Hadiza Ibrahim
Many Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria have come under the axe of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for failing to duly register their products with the agency which lis statutorily empowered to perform the function.
In order to ease the process, NAFDAC has streamlined its registration procedures to create a more accessible avenue for entrepreneurs to bring their innovations to the market.
Below are the basic steps to follow when registering a product with NAFDAC.
Step 1: Online Registration and Beyond
The journey to NAFDAC registration begins with a simple online visit to the NAFDAC website. Entrepreneurs can access the registration form and guidelines there, thus providing a convenient starting point for MSMEs. For those preferring a hands-on approach, they can visit any NAFDAC State office across the country to obtain physical copies of registration forms and guidelines.
Step 2: Document Submission and Essentials
For micro-scale enterprises, the crucial step is the submission of a fully completed registration form along with the following documents:
• Evidence of Registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to prove the business’ legality.
• Site Use Agreement: When applicable, this agreement confirms the location where the product will be manufactured.
• Trademark Approval: To protect your product brand or business name.
• One Vetting Sample and Three Labels: These samples provide an initial insight into your product.
• Fumigation Certificate: To ensure hygiene standards are met.
• Receipt of Payment for Production Registration: Proof of financial commitment.
• Food Handlers Certificate/Medical Fitness Certificate: Vital for production staff, including tests for sputum, stool, urinary, widal and Hepatitis B.
Payment follows a straightforward process:
• Receive payment advice based on your application.
• Generate a Remita invoice from www.remita.net and make the payment at a commercial bank.
• Collect a receipt of payment from NAFDAC’s Accounts department.
Attach a photocopy of the receipt to your application.
Step 3: Booking Facility Inspection
Entrepreneurs enjoy the flexibility of choosing a convenient inspection date. This step ensures that the production facility meets the necessary standards.
Step 4: Sampling Products
During the facility inspection, product samples are collected and sent for laboratory analysis. It’s worth noting that samples are only taken when Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and Good Hygiene Practice (GHP) are satisfactory.
Step 5: Product Approval
Once the product passes the GMP and laboratory tests, it is scheduled for approval.
Step 6: Certificate Collection
Successful applicants are then notified to collect their certificates, marking the final step in the journey.
Timeline: The entire process, from Step 1 to Step 6, typically takes ninety (90) working days.
Product Label & Artwork Requirements
To ensure consumer safety and transparency, product labeling must adhere to specific guidelines:
• Labeling should be in English and include:
• Name of the Product
• Net Weight/Volume
• Batch Number
• Manufacturing Date
• Best Before Date
• Provision for NAFDAC Reg No.
• Allergy Cautions (where necessary)
• Dispose Properly Sign
• Storage Conditions
• List of Ingredients
• Manufacturer’s Name and Address
• Directions for Use
