The Export Licence, issued by the government of Nigeria through the Nigerian Export Promotion Council NEPC, legally gives an exporter the rights to export specified goods into the international market. To any Nigerian business exporter, such a licence is therefore not only obligatory but also necessary for both national and international trade standards. This article outlines the step-by-step procedure for obtaining an export licence in Nigeria.

How to Obtain an Export Licence in Nigeria

1. Business Registration

First, one needs to ensure that his or her business is duly registered in Nigeria. The procedure for registration of a business depends on the form adopted or chosen:

– Limited Liability Companies and Governmental/Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs) will be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
– Cooperative Societies will register with the appropriate Ministry of Commerce in their respective States or the FCT.

Note: A firm that is only registered as “Business Names” cannot be considered for an export licence by the NEPC. Relevant documents filed during registration, such as the Certificate of Incorporation, will be required during the export licence application.

2. Registration with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council

This is the prime regulatory agency that governs export activities in Nigeria, and as such provides export licenses. NEPC registration may be done through the following steps:

Pay the statutory registration fee
Fill in the application form of the NEPC with all the information
Attach the supporting documents (varies by business entity type)

Documents needed :

– In the case of a Limited Liability Company,
– Certificate of Incorporation from the CAC.
– Certified True Copy of Memorandum and Articles of Association.
– Status Report of the Company detailing the names of the Directors.
– In the case of a Cooperative Society,
– Certificate of Registration from the relevant State Ministry of Commerce or FCT.
– Bye Laws of the Cooperative Society.
– In the case of Governmental or Non-Governmental Organizations
– Certificate of Registration issued by the Corporate Affairs Commission.
– Constitution of the Organisation
– Memorandum for Guidance of Applicant.

3. Export Licence

Upon verification of payment, the NEPC would issue the export licence after due consideration. This is valid for two years in the first instance and renewable annually afterwards.

Conclusion

Obtaining an export licence is one of the key steps for any business that wants to export goods from Nigeria. The process is tailored in such a way that businesses are able to meet the legal requirements of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as well as other international trade standards. Although the steps highlighted will give a clear direction through which an export licence can be obtained, the use of a professional service will be most helpful in terms of ease and avoiding pitfalls.

This article provides a general overview of the subject. Please contact us directly for any specific legal assistance required.