Getting an Export License in Nigeria (NEPC)

Official Overview & Purpose of Getting an Export License in Nigeria (NEPC)

Completing your Export License in Nigeria (NEPC) application is a mandatory administrative requirement for individuals and legal entities operating in Lagos State and across Nigeria. Overseen by Nigerian Export Promotion Council, this process establishes official legal recognition, regulatory compliance, and access to essential public and commercial services.

Whether you are starting a business, legalizing property ownership, or acquiring official identity documents, following the accredited step-by-step procedure guarantees seamless processing without exposure to unauthorized third-party touts.

Step-by-Step Application Procedure

To complete your Export License in Nigeria (NEPC) application efficiently, applicants should follow this structured process:

1. Online Application & Invoice Generation: Access the official portal (https://nepc.gov.ng) to complete the required forms and generate your standardized Remita payment invoice.
2. Document Preparation: Gather valid photo identification (NIN, Driver's License, or International Passport), proof of address (utility bill or LASRRA card), and required passport photographs.
3. Biometric Capture & Verification: Visit an accredited processing center for physical document verification, fingerprint scanning, and facial capture.
4. Official Fee Payment: Standard processing fees are fixed at approximately 13500 NGN. Always pay directly through official banking channels or accredited online payment gateways.
5. Approval & Collection: Upon successful processing, collect your official certificate or card from the designated center or download your digital verification document online.

Accredited Processing Centers in Lagos State

Official centers are conveniently located across major LGAs in Lagos State, including Ikeja, Lagos Island, Surulere, and Lekki. Verify center locations directly on the official portal: https://nepc.gov.ng.

Key Tips for Fast Processing

• Arrive Early: Processing centers open early; arriving by 7:30 AM ensures priority queue placement.
• Data Consistency: Ensure your name, date of birth, and NIN details match across all submitted documents.
• Official Staff Only: Interact exclusively with badged staff inside accredited government facilities.

Required Documents and Certificate Validity

The NEPC registration file varies depending on the exporter's legal structure. For a company, you need the CAC incorporation certificate, a certified true copy of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and Form CAC 1.1 Section C (list of directors, formerly Form C07). Once issued, the NEPC certificate is valid for two years and renewable annually thereafter; processing typically takes about 24 hours after payment is confirmed on the e-registration portal.

The NXP Form: A Mandatory Step Before Shipment

Beyond NEPC registration, every export transaction must be declared through the NXP Form, a document mandated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and endorsed by an Authorized Dealer bank chosen by the exporter. It records the commodity, quantity, destination country, buyer details, and expected foreign exchange proceeds, allowing the CBN to track foreign currency flows tied to trade. Without a bank-endorsed NXP, no shipment can be cleared by the Nigeria Customs Service, whether through the Lagos seaports (Apapa, Tin Can Island) or the cargo terminal at Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

Certificate of Origin and Lagos Export Routes

A Certificate of Origin, issued by a chamber of commerce (such as the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry) or by customs, rounds out the export file, proving the Nigerian origin of goods as required by the importing country. Lagos-based exporters typically route their shipments through the Apapa and Tin Can Island port terminals for sea freight, or through the cargo terminal at Murtala Muhammed International Airport for air freight. iLagosCity recommends double-checking that the NXP details, the NEPC certificate, and the commercial invoice all match, since any discrepancy can trigger a customs hold and extra port storage fees.

Priority Sectors and NEPC Support

NEPC gives particular attention to non-oil exporters in processed agro-food products, handicrafts, textiles, and value-added manufactured goods, who benefit from support programs (training, international trade fairs, matchmaking with foreign buyers) through its Lagos regional office. First-time exporters should consult this office before their first shipment to confirm their products meet the destination country's standards and avoid rejection on arrival.