Heavy equipment dealers in Nigeria

The equipment market in Nigeria

Nigeria has Africa's largest population and one of its biggest economies. Equipment demand is centred on Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt.

Construction is the main driver: roads and bridges, building in Lagos and Abuja, and port and industrial projects. The oil and gas industry in the Niger Delta, served through Port Harcourt and Onne, needs cranes, forklifts, generators and earthmoving machines.

Farming is a large and growing market for tractors and processing equipment, and the government is promoting solid minerals mining. Nigeria is a big country, so check that a dealer has a branch or service team near your site.

Importing and registering equipment in Nigeria

1. Ports

   Lagos (Apapa and Tin Can Island), the newer Lekki Deep Sea Port, and Onne near Port Harcourt, which handles much of the oil and gas cargo.

2. Start with a Form M

   Every import starts with a Form M, opened through an authorised Nigerian bank.

3. SONCAP certificates

   Goods regulated by SON (Standards Organisation of Nigeria) need a Product Certificate and a SONCAP Certificate. Both are needed for the Form M and to clear customs.

4. Customs

   Clearance is through the Nigeria Customs Service.

5. Registering for road use

   Registration is done state by state, at the state motor licensing office. Number plates come through the FRSC (Federal Road Safety Corps) system, and Vehicle Inspection Officers check roadworthiness first.