Prohibited & Restricted Items
Shipping internationally requires strict adherence to two sets of rules: Airline Safety Regulations (what can be safely flown) and Nigeria Customs Prohibitions (what is legally allowed to enter). Ignorance of these rules can lead to seizure, fines, or prosecution.
Prohibited Items
Goods that are absolutely forbidden from entering Nigeria or being loaded onto an aircraft. There are no exceptions or licenses for these items.
Restricted Items
Goods that generally cannot be imported but may be allowed with specific licenses, permits (e.g., NAFDAC), or government authorization.
Air Freight Safety Prohibitions
International Aviation Laws (IATA) prohibit certain items that pose a risk to the aircraft. These rules apply regardless of the destination. If we find these items in your cargo, they will be removed and destroyed.
Nigeria Customs Import Prohibition List
The Federal Government of Nigeria prohibits the importation of the following items to protect local industries and public health. This list is strictly enforced at all entry points (Apapa, Tin Can, MMIA). Attempting to smuggle these items is a criminal offense leading to seizure.
Food & Consumables
- • Live or Dead Birds (Frozen Poultry)
- • Pork & Beef
- • Birds Eggs
- • Refined Vegetable Oils & Fats
- • Spaghetti & Noodles
- • Fruit Juice in retail packs
- • Water (Mineral/Aerated)
Vehicles & Industrial
- • Vehicles over 15 years old
- • Used Compressors
- • Used Fridges & Air Conditioners
- • Bagged Cement
- • Used Motor Tyres
Misc. & Textiles
- • Air Pistols & Ammunition
- • Second-hand Clothing (Okrika)
- • Used Shoes (Commercial quantity)
- • Carpets & Rugs
- • Mosquito Repellant Coils
- • Ballpoint Pens
Strict Enforcement Policy
Africargo Worldwide Ltd cooperates fully with UK Border Force and Nigeria Customs. We inspect all cargo before shipping. If we find prohibited items, we will:
- Remove the item from the shipment.
- Notify the relevant authorities if illegal.
- You may forfeit your shipping fees.
Restricted Items (Permit Required)
| Item Category | Required Permit/Action |
|---|---|
| Pharmaceuticals (Allowed types) | Must have NAFDAC registration and be shipped via designated air carriers. |
| Chemicals (Industrial) | Import Permit from NAFDAC + End User Certificate (EUC) from NSA. |
| Security Equipment / Armored Cars | Strict End User Certificate (EUC) from the Office of the National Security Adviser. |
| Communication Equipment | Type Approval from Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). |
Valid permits must be obtained prior to shipping.
Prohibitions FAQ
Can I hide items inside other items?
No. All cargo is X-Rayed at the airport. Concealing prohibited items (e.g., putting phones inside a microwave or drugs inside food) will be detected and leads to immediate seizure and police involvement.
Can I ship herbal medicine?
Generally, no. Unless the herbal medicine is NAFDAC registered and commercially packaged, unidentified powders and liquids are often rejected by airlines.
What happens if my goods are seized?
Africargo Worldwide Ltd is not liable for goods seized due to non-compliance with the prohibition list. The shipper bears full responsibility for the contents of their package.