Pet Transport from UK to Nigeria: NAFDAC Permits, Airlines and the Process

Nigeria is home to a significant expatriate community, and British residents relocating to Lagos or Abuja increasingly want to bring their pets. The process works, but it needs a specialist – the paperwork for Nigeria is specific and the airline options require careful planning.

What Nigeria Requires from UK-Origin Pets

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) oversees veterinary import permits in Nigeria. Requirements for dogs and cats arriving from the UK include:

  • A veterinary import permit from NAFDAC (apply before travel)
  • An APHA-endorsed health certificate from a UK vet, issued within ten days of departure
  • Rabies vaccination (current and valid on arrival)
  • Core vaccinations (distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis for dogs; herpesvirus, calicivirus, panleukopenia for cats)
  • External and internal parasite treatment records
  • Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)

A rabies titre test is not routinely required for Nigerian import from the UK, but confirm the current requirements when applying for the NAFDAC permit.

Getting the NAFDAC Import Permit

Apply to NAFDAC before travel. The process is best managed through a Lagos-based pet transport specialist who knows the NAFDAC application requirements. Allow at least three to four weeks for the permit.

Airlines from UK to Nigeria

Most pet cargo on this route travels via a hub connection. Common options:

  • British Airways via London Heathrow to Lagos (LOS): British Airways serves Lagos Murtala Muhammed International Airport and has live animal cargo. Contact British Airways Cargo directly.
  • Virgin Atlantic to Lagos: Virgin Atlantic also serves LOS. Confirm live animal cargo acceptance with their cargo team.
  • Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa: A practical routing for cargo, with Ethiopian’s strong Africa network.
  • Kenya Airways via Nairobi: Another Africa-hub option with live animal capability.

Avoid routings that involve multiple tight connections – cargo live animal space is limited and delays can cause problems at transit points.

Practical Notes for Lagos and Abuja

Veterinary care in Lagos and Abuja has improved significantly. Several international-standard clinics serve expatriate residents. Bring a supply of any ongoing prescription medications.

Nigeria’s climate is hot and humid. Tick and heartworm prevention is important from day one. Brachycephalic breeds are at higher risk in this heat.

Summary Checklist

  • NAFDAC import permit (3-4 weeks lead time)
  • APHA-endorsed health certificate, within 10 days of departure
  • Rabies vaccination (current)
  • Core vaccinations
  • Parasite treatments
  • Microchip
  • IATA-compliant crate

Frequently Asked Questions

NAFDAC is the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control in Nigeria. It oversees veterinary import permits for live animals entering the country. Yes, you need a NAFDAC veterinary import permit before bringing a dog or cat into Nigeria. Apply at least three to four weeks before your travel date. A Lagos-based pet transport specialist can help manage the application.

British Airways and Virgin Atlantic both serve Lagos Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) from London and have live animal cargo programmes. Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa and Kenya Airways via Nairobi are also used for UK-Nigeria pet cargo. Contact the cargo team of your chosen carrier directly to confirm availability and make the booking.

A rabies titre test is not a standard requirement for dogs and cats arriving in Nigeria from the UK. A current rabies vaccination and NAFDAC-issued import permit are the primary requirements. Confirm the current rules when applying for your import permit, as NAFDAC requirements can be updated.

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