Introduction
The Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) is a regulatory agency under the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD). It is responsible for preventing the introduction, spread, and establishment of pests, diseases, and contaminants that may affect Nigeria’s plants, animals, and agricultural products.
NAQS plays a critical role in import and export clearance by ensuring that agricultural products comply with international quarantine standards. All agricultural goods entering or leaving Nigeria must meet NAQS permit and clearance requirements before they can pass through Nigerian Customs.
Functions of NAQS in Customs Clearance
- Regulation of Plant, Animal, and Fisheries Imports and Exports
- Ensures that only pest-free and disease-free agricultural products enter Nigeria.
- Prevents the spread of quarantine pests, diseases, and contaminants through imported goods.
- Issuance of Import and Export Permits
- Grants permits for agricultural commodities, including livestock, food, seeds, and fisheries products.
- Inspection and Certification of Agricultural Products
- Conducts physical and laboratory inspections of agricultural shipments at ports, airports, and land borders.
- Enforcement of Phytosanitary and Zoosanitary Standards
- Ensures compliance with the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH – formerly OIE) standards.
- Border Control and Quarantine Measures
- Works with Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to inspect and clear agricultural consignments.
- Prevents the illegal trade of invasive species, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and hazardous agricultural imports.
Types of NAQS Permits and Clearances
1. Import Permits for Agricultural Goods
Importers of agricultural products must obtain a NAQS Import Permit before shipping their goods to Nigeria.
Categories of Imports Requiring NAQS Permits:
- Plants and Plant Products: Seeds, fruits, vegetables, cereals, spices, herbs, flowers, etc.
- Animal and Animal Products: Live animals, dairy, meat, poultry, animal feed, etc.
- Fisheries and Aquatic Products: Fish, crustaceans, seafood, live ornamental fish, etc.
- Biological Materials: Microorganisms, soil samples, vaccines, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
Requirements for Obtaining a NAQS Import Permit:
✅ Application through the NAQS online portal or physical submission.
✅ Submission of proforma invoice and bill of lading for goods.
✅ Payment of applicable fees.
✅ Phytosanitary or Zoo sanitary certificates from the exporting country.
2. Export Certification for Agricultural Products
NAQS also regulates the export of Nigerian agricultural goods to ensure compliance with international trade standards.
Steps to Obtain NAQS Export Clearance:
- Apply for an Export Permit from NAQS.
- Submit product samples for testing and quality certification.
- Obtain a Phytosanitary or Zoosanitary Certificate after NAQS inspection.
- Comply with destination country requirements for agricultural exports.
Products Requiring NAQS Export Certification:
- Cocoa, cashew, sesame seeds, ginger, hibiscus, and other agricultural commodities.
- Meat, poultry, dairy, and fish exports.
- Timber and forest products.
3. Phytosanitary and Zoosanitary Certification
For plants and plant products, NAQS issues a Phytosanitary Certificate to confirm that the goods are pest-free and meet quarantine standards.
For animals and animal products, NAQS issues a Zoosanitary Certificate to confirm that the animals or animal products are free from infectious diseases.
These certificates are required for both imports and exports of agricultural goods.
4. Inspection and Quarantine Clearance
After arriving at a Nigerian port, airport, or border post, agricultural products must undergo:
- Physical inspection by NAQS officers.
- Laboratory testing (if required) to check for pests or diseases.
- Fumigation or quarantine (if necessary) to eliminate contamination risks.
Once cleared, NAQS grants release approval for the goods to be processed by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for final customs clearance.
Consequences of Not Having a NAQS Permit and Clearance
Importers and exporters who fail to comply with NAQS regulations may face the following consequences:
1. Cargo Seizure or Rejection
- Imports without a valid NAQS permit may be seized and destroyed at the port.
- Export consignments without proper certification may be rejected by the destination country.
2. Heavy Fines and Penalties
- Importers/exporters who fail to obtain the required NAQS permits may face fines and legal sanctions.
3. Delay in Cargo Clearance
- Lack of proper NAQS documentation can result in delays in customs clearance and additional storage charges at the port.
4. Public Health and Environmental Risks
- Importing infected plants, contaminated food, or diseased animals can cause serious outbreaks affecting agriculture, public health, and the environment.
5. Business Disruptions and Trade Restrictions
- Companies that fail to comply with NAQS regulations may face suspension or blacklisting from international trade.
How to Obtain a NAQS Permit Efficiently
To ensure smooth import and export clearance, follow these steps:
- Consult with NAQS or a licensed customs agent to understand the requirements.
- Apply for an Import or Export Permit before shipment.
- Ensure compliance with quarantine standards from the country of origin.
- Schedule NAQS inspection upon arrival at Nigerian ports.
- Obtain necessary certificates (Phytosanitary, Zoo sanitary, Health Certificate, etc.).
- Submit all required documents to Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for final clearance.
Conclusion
The Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) plays a crucial role in regulating agricultural imports and exports to prevent the spread of pests, diseases, and contaminants. Importers and exporters dealing with plants, animals, food, and biological materials must obtain the necessary NAQS permits and clearances before shipment.
Failure to comply with NAQS regulations can lead to cargo seizure, fines, delays, and public health risks. By ensuring proper permit applications, documentation, and inspection compliance, traders can avoid delays and penalties while facilitating smooth customs clearance in Nigeria.
Written by Owoyomi Oluwatosin Adedapo (OOA)