A Guide To Investing in Nigeria

Service to Investors

Obtain an Investment Certificate

  • Investors should contact the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) or the relevant state investment promotion agency, such as the Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC), for information on the specific requirements and application process.
  • Prepare the necessary documentation, including a business plan, project proposal, and other required information.
  • Submit the application to the NIPC or the state investment promotion agency.
  • The agency will review the application and issue the investment certificate upon approval.

Foreign Taxpayer Registration

  • Foreign investors should register with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) for tax purposes.
  • Submit the registration application to the nearest FIRS office.
  • Once registered, the investor will be assigned a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and will be required to comply with Nigerian tax regulations.

Power Connection

  • To connect to the power grid in Nigeria, contact the distribution company (DisCo) responsible for the area where the business is located.
  • Work with the DisCo to complete the necessary paperwork and pay any required fees.
  • The DisCo will conduct an assessment and install the power connection.

Register with Labor Unions of Nigerian Employers

  • If your business intends to hire employees in Nigeria, you may need to register with relevant labor unions and organizations.
  • Contact the specific labor union(s) or organization(s) that apply to your industry.
  • Comply with registration requirements and follow the regulations related to labor relations in Nigeria.

Obtain Immigration Permits - Class A Work Permit

  • Class A work permits in Nigeria are typically for expatriates in top management or specialized positions.
  • To obtain a Class A work permit, the employer should apply to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) on behalf of the foreign employee.
  • Submit the required documentation, including a letter of employment, passport, and other relevant documents.
  • NIS will process the application and issue the work permit if approved.

Obtain Immigration Permits - Class B Work Permit

  • Class B work permits are for expatriates employed in supervisory or technical positions.
  • The employer should apply to the NIS on behalf of the foreign employee.
  • Prepare and submit the necessary documentation.
  • The NIS will review the application and grant the work permit upon approval.

Obtain Immigration Permits - Class C Work Permit

  • Class C work permits are for expatriate employees in non-specialized roles.
  • The employer should apply to the NIS on behalf of the foreign employee.
  • Complete the required documentation and submit the application.
  • The NIS will evaluate the application and issue the work permit if it meets the requirements.