CBN Allows Temporary Use of Expired NAFDAC Licences for Imports
The Central Bank of Nigeria has approved a temporary arrangement that allows importers to use expired NAFDAC licences for import documentation. This decision is meant to provide short-term relief to businesses facing challenges due to recent system changes in Nigeria’s trade processing framework.
In a circular dated January 26, 2026, the CBN informed authorised dealer banks that they can continue to process Form M applications using NAFDAC licences that expired on December 31, 2025. The circular was issued by the bank’s Trade and Exchange Department.
The approval takes effect immediately and will last for two months. It is scheduled to end on February 28, 2026. After this date, expired licences will no longer be accepted under this special arrangement.
According to the CBN, the decision follows a temporary dispensation already granted by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control. The measure applies strictly to the processing of Form M, which is a key document required for imports into Nigeria.
The bank explained that the move became necessary due to operational problems linked to the migration from the old Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System platform. Since the transition, many importers have faced difficulties renewing or validating their NAFDAC licences.
These issues have been especially noticeable on the new B’Odogwu platform introduced after December 2025. As a result, businesses have struggled to complete import documentation, leading to delays in trade activities.
To reduce these bottlenecks, the CBN directed all authorised dealer banks to accept the affected NAFDAC licences during the approved window. The bank stressed that this is a temporary solution and urged strict compliance with the rules.
The CBN also noted that this step is aimed at ensuring smooth trade transactions while NAFDAC works to fully integrate its systems with the National Single Window platform. The National Single Window is a central digital system designed to make import and export processes faster and more transparent.
The Federal Government had earlier announced plans to modernise and simplify Nigeria’s trade procedures through this platform. Once fully operational, it is expected to reduce delays, cut bureaucracy, and improve Nigeria’s competitiveness in global trade.
