Quick Answer
SONCAP (Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Programme) is mandatory for many regulated products entering Nigeria — electronics, electrical goods, steel, building materials, toys, and more. A SON-approved agency tests and inspects goods in the country of origin before shipment, issuing a Certificate of Conformity required at the Nigerian port.
How SONCAP Works
- Identify whether your product is regulated under SONCAP.
- Engage a SON-approved agency (e.g. SGS, Intertek, Bureau Veritas) in the origin country.
- Goods are tested and inspected before shipment.
- A Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is issued and travels with the shipment.
SONCAP must be arranged before goods ship — it takes 2–4 weeks. Goods arriving without it face costly delays. See our importing to Nigeria guide.
Key Takeaways
- SONCAP is mandatory for many goods entering Nigeria.
- A SON-approved agency tests in the origin country.
- The Certificate of Conformity is needed at port.
- Arrange it before shipment — it takes 2–4 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SONCAP?
SONCAP is the Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Programme, a mandatory certification for many regulated products entering Nigeria, confirming they meet Nigerian standards.
Which products need SONCAP?
Regulated categories including electronics, electrical equipment, steel and building materials, toys, automotive parts, and chemicals. Some products are exempt — confirm your category.
When should SONCAP be arranged?
Before goods ship from the origin country. Testing and certification take about 2–4 weeks, and goods arriving in Nigeria without a valid Certificate of Conformity face costly delays.
Who issues SONCAP certificates?
SON-approved inspection agencies — such as SGS, Intertek, and Bureau Veritas — test and inspect goods in the origin country and issue the Certificate of Conformity.
Can Plutonia arrange SONCAP for my shipment?
Yes. Plutonia coordinates SONCAP testing and certification with approved agencies before shipment, so goods clear Nigerian customs without SONCAP delays. Submit your shipment details to start.