Nigeria SONCAP: Bureau Veritas authorization extended until August 2026

Earlier this year, it was announced that the contract between Bureau Veritas and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) would not be renewed, meaning Bureau Veritas would no longer be authorized to issue conformity certificates as of May 1, 2026.

SON has now provided further clarification on the transition process.

What is the current situation?

According to the latest instructions from SON:

• Bureau Veritas may continue issuing SONCAP Certificates (NGA) until August 5, 2026
• New SONCAP files can still be opened, as long as they are supported by a valid Product Certificate issued before 1 May 2026
• Current SONCAP procedures and fee structures remain unchanged.

At the same time:

• New requests for Product Certificates (NGP) are no longer accepted by Bureau Veritas
• Pending NGP requests will not be processed or issued
• Bureau Veritas is authorized to amend valid Product Certificates (PC2 and PC3) issued prior to 1 May 2026, until 5 August 2026.

What does this mean for exporters?

If you export regulated products to Nigeria, this transition period requires close attention.

Your ability to continue shipping under the current process now depends heavily on:

• The validity of your existing Product Certificates
• The expiration dates linked to those certificates
• Your future certification strategy after August 2026

Organizations relying on existing SONCAP approvals should review their current certificate portfolio as soon as possible.

How Pincvision supports you

At Pincvision, we are actively working with alternative accredited inspection bodies to ensure a smooth continuation of certification services for our customers before the August deadline.

We also review existing licenses and Product Certificates on a customer-by-customer basis and proactively identify where action may be required.

Our specialists help you stay compliant throughout this transition, minimize shipment disruptions, and maintain uninterrupted access to the Nigerian market.

Do you have questions about your current SONCAP or Product Certificates? We’re happy to help you assess the impact on your organization.