FDA Registration Guide for Food Manufacturers in Lagos, Abuja, and Kano

Nigeria is Africa's largest economy and one of the continent's most significant food producers. Companies from Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Ibadan, Port Harcourt, and Enugu manufacture a wide variety of food products — from cocoa and palm oil to processed snacks, beverages, spices, and aquaculture products. With growing interest in the US market, Nigerian food manufacturers need to understand and comply with FDA requirements before making their first shipment.

Why Must Nigerian Food Facilities Register with the FDA?

Under the US Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), any facility that manufactures, processes, packs, or stores food intended for US consumers must register with the FDA before the first shipment. This applies to all Nigerian food exporters — whether you are a large Lagos food processing company, a Kano grain miller, an Ibadan cocoa processor, or a Port Harcourt seafood exporter. Without registration, your shipments can be detained at the port or refused entry into the US.

What Is the DUNS Number and Why Do You Need It?

A DUNS (Data Universal Numbering System) number is a 9-digit business identifier issued by Dun & Bradstreet. The FDA uses it to verify company information during the registration process. You must obtain a DUNS number before submitting your FDA Food Facility Registration application. FDABridge helps Nigerian companies from Lagos, Abuja, and Kano obtain this number quickly as part of our full registration package.

What Is the US Agent and Why Is It Mandatory?

The FDA requires all registered foreign food facilities to designate a US Agent — a person or business physically located in the United States who serves as the official point of contact between the FDA and your company. The FDA sends all inspection notices, document requests, and important communications through the US Agent. FDABridge provides a complete US Agent service for all Nigerian food facilities.

Step-by-Step FDA Registration Process

Step 1: Collect facility information (name, address, product types, responsible person). Step 2: Obtain a DUNS number if you do not already have one. Step 3: Designate a US Agent. Step 4: Submit the Food Facility Registration online through the FDA FURLS system. Step 5: Receive your FEI (Food Establishment Identifier) registration number. The entire process typically takes 3–5 business days once all documents are submitted.

Which Nigerian Food Products Require FDA Registration?

Most Nigerian food products exported to the US require FDA registration, including: cocoa and cocoa products, palm oil and palm products, sesame seeds and groundnuts, dried and smoked fish, processed snacks and biscuits, beverages including malt drinks and juices, spices and seasonings (suya spice, egusi, etc.), and honey and bee products. FDABridge confirms specific requirements based on your product category.

How FDABridge Helps Nigerian Food Exporters

FDABridge specialises in helping food businesses from Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and across Nigeria meet FDA requirements from start to finish. Our services include document review and consultation, DUNS number acquisition, US Agent service, Food Facility Registration submission. Contact us today to start exporting your Nigerian food products to the United States.