How to sell on Amazon from Nigeria is a question many entrepreneurs ask. The good news is that Nigerians can now register and trade on Amazon, reaching millions of global customers.
Amazon dominates nearly 40 percent of online retail sales worldwide. For Nigerian entrepreneurs, it is an opportunity to turn local products or sourced goods into a global brand.
This guide explains how to set up your account, receive payments in Nigeria, ship products, manage fees, and build a profitable Amazon business.
See also: Proven ways to start a successful business.
Key Takeaways
- Nigerians can legally open an Amazon seller account and access global marketplaces like the US, UK, and UAE.
- Success depends on having the right documents, payment setup, and choosing between Amazon FBA Nigeria or FBM Nigeria.
- Profitable selling starts with smart product selection, accurate cost calculations, and strict compliance with Amazon and export rules.
- Growth comes from optimising listings, running ads, collecting reviews, and scaling into new marketplaces with proper systems.
Can Nigerians Really Sell on Amazon
Yes, Nigerians can sell on Amazon. Nigeria is listed among the countries eligible to open an Amazon seller account.
This means entrepreneurs can start selling on international marketplaces such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates directly from Nigeria.
Basic Requirements – How to Sell on Amazon from Nigeria
Amazon requires that sellers from Nigeria meet certain conditions before opening an account.
| Requirement | Details | Practical tip for Nigerian sellers |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | Government issued ID such as an international passport or national ID card | Ensure the name matches your bank and tax details |
| Proof of address | Utility bill or bank statement issued within the last 90 days | The document must clearly show your name and current residential address |
| Bank details | Local bank account that supports international transfers or linked payout service | Double check that the account name matches your ID |
| Credit or debit card | Chargeable international card (Visa or MasterCard) | Necessary for Amazon subscription charges |
| Contact details | Working phone number and email address | Use an active number to receive verification codes |
Selling Plans Available to Nigerian Sellers
Amazon offers two plans: Individual and Professional. The choice depends on your sales volume and business goals.
| Plan | Fees | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | $0.99 per item sold | Low volume sellers testing products |
| Professional | $39.99 per month | Sellers planning to move volume, advertise, and access bulk tools |
Payment Options Available in Nigeria
Nigerian sellers can receive earnings through two main payout options.
| Payment option | How it works | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Currency Converter for Sellers (ACCS) | Amazon converts your earnings and pays directly into your Nigerian bank account in Naira | Simple to set up, reliable, direct to bank |
| Payoneer | Provides a virtual foreign account you link to Amazon and then withdraw to your Nigerian bank | Flexibility to hold and convert earnings in USD, GBP or EUR |
Marketplaces Open to Nigerians
Nigerians can register to sell in the following Amazon marketplaces:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- United Arab Emirates
- Other international stores once your account is verified and compliant
Pitfalls to Avoid When Selling on Amazon from Nigeria
- Submitting documents with mismatched names or unclear scans
- Using restricted products or categories without approval
- Ignoring export compliance and shipping requirements when sending goods to Amazon fulfilment centres
What You Need Before Opening an Amazon Seller Account from Nigeria
Before you can start selling on Amazon from Nigeria, you must prepare the right documents, accounts, and resources.
Meeting these requirements will help you avoid delays or rejections during verification.
Identity and Address Verification
Amazon requires proof of identity and proof of address. These documents must be clear and consistent.
| Document | Acceptable options | Notes for Nigerian sellers |
|---|---|---|
| Government issued ID | International passport, National ID card, Driver’s licence | The name must match your bank and tax details |
| Proof of address | Utility bill, bank statement, credit card statement (issued within 90 days) | Must display your name and current residential address clearly |
Bank and Payment Setup
You will need a payout solution to receive Amazon payments in Nigeria.
| Requirement | Options available | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Bank account | Local NGN bank account linked to Amazon Currency Converter for Sellers (ACCS) | Direct deposits into Naira, simple to manage |
| Payment service | Payoneer receiving account linked to Amazon seller account Nigeria | Flexibility to hold USD, GBP or EUR and withdraw at favourable rates |
Credit or Debit Card
Amazon requires a chargeable card to process subscription charges.
- Visa or MasterCard works for most Nigerian sellers.
- Ensure the card is enabled for international online payments.
Business or Individual Setup
When opening an Amazon seller account from Nigeria, you must decide whether to operate as an individual or as a registered business.
| Account type | What it means | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Individual seller | Uses your personal ID and bank account | Small scale sellers testing Amazon FBM Nigeria or low volume sales |
| Business seller | Uses your registered company details and CAC documents | Entrepreneurs who want to scale with Amazon FBA Nigeria, advertise, and access Brand Registry |
If you want to operate as a business, registering your company with CAC gives you credibility and flexibility. Entrepreneurs.ng offers a Business Registration service that helps you get started quickly and correctly.
Tax Interview
All non-US sellers must complete a tax interview when setting up their account. Nigerians typically fill out the W-8BEN (for individuals) or W-8BEN-E (for companies).
- This form is not about paying US tax but declaring you are a non-US seller.
- Ensure your details match your ID and bank account information to avoid errors.
How to Open an Amazon Seller Account from Nigeria
Follow this clear process to start selling on Amazon from Nigeria. It is designed to reduce verification delays and set up clean payments from day one.
Step by Step Overview
| Step | Action | Outcome | Time guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Decide your first marketplace and selling plan | You know where you will sell and which plan fits your volume | 15 to 30 minutes |
| 2 | Create your Seller Central profile | Account shell opened with email, phone, and legal name | 10 minutes |
| 3 | Complete identity and address checks | KYC passes with clear ID and proof of address | 15 to 45 minutes |
| 4 | Add a chargeable card | Subscription charge succeeds and the account remains active | 5 minutes |
| 5 | Set your deposit method for Amazon payments Nigeria | ACCS to NGN bank or Payoneer to hold USD, GBP, or EUR | 10 to 20 minutes |
| 6 | Finish the tax interview | W 8BEN or W 8BEN E submitted with matching details | 10 minutes |
| 7 | Configure shipping settings | FBM shipping templates ready or FBA inbound ready later | 10 to 20 minutes |
| 8 | Enable two factor authentication | Account security in place | 2 minutes |
| 9 | Create your first product listing | ASIN created and compliance checked | 20 to 60 minutes |
| 10 | Prepare for FBA or FBM launch | Labels, handling time, and returns set | 30 to 90 minutes |
Create the Account Cleanly Using These Steps
Choose marketplace and plan
Select the United States, United Kingdom, or another Amazon store that matches your logistics and target customers.
Pick the Individual plan if you want to test with low volume, or the Professional plan if you are ready for growth with ads and bulk tools.
Open your Seller Central profile
Register with a professional email, enter your legal name exactly as on your ID, and verify your Nigerian phone number. Ensure names are consistent to speed up verification.
Pass identity and address verification
Upload a valid passport or National ID along with a clear utility bill or bank statement not older than 90 days.
All details must match your Amazon seller account Nigeria application.
Add a chargeable card
Link a Visa or MasterCard enabled for international online payments. This covers the Professional subscription or per-item fees on the Individual plan.
Set up Amazon payments Nigeria
Choose one payout method:
- Amazon Currency Converter for direct NGN deposits into your Nigerian bank.
- Payoneer Amazon Nigeria for holding USD, GBP, or EUR and converting when rates are favourable.
Stick to one option to avoid settlement issues.
Complete the tax interview
Fill out the W-8BEN form if you are an individual or W-8BEN-E if you are a company. Enter your legal name and Nigerian address exactly as on your documents.
This confirms your non-US status and prevents unnecessary tax withholding.
Configure shipping settings
For Amazon FBM Nigeria, set shipping regions, rates, handling times, and returns. For Amazon FBA Nigeria, prepare to create inbound shipments once your product is listed.
Enable two-factor authentication
Activate app-based verification codes and keep backup codes safe. This step protects your account, payouts, and performance metrics.
Create your first listing
Prepare a GTIN (UPC or EAN), product title, bullet points, description, images, and compliance information. Select the right category and confirm if it requires approval.
Prepare for launch
If using FBM, confirm packaging, handling time, and courier pickup. If using FBA, generate FNSKU labels, carton labels, and pack within Amazon’s weight and size requirements. Use a checklist to ensure no steps are missed.
Verification Issues and Quick Fixes
| Problem | Likely cause | Fix that works |
|---|---|---|
| Identity review pending for days | Blurry ID or cropped edges | Rescan in colour, full edges visible, high resolution |
| Address document rejected | Name or address does not match the application | Update your application to match the document or submit a statement with the correct details |
| Card decline | Card not enabled for international online charges | Call your bank to enable online and international use, then retry |
| Payout method on hold | Mixed details across bank, Payoneer, and ID | Standardise name format, remove one method, re add the preferred method |
| Tax interview flagged | Typo in legal name or wrong form type | Re open the tax interview, select the correct form, enter details exactly as on your ID |
Smart Setup Tips for Nigerian Sellers
- Keep a single naming convention across ID, bank, and Seller Central.
- Save all scans in a secure folder so re submissions are quick.
- Start with one SKU and one marketplace, then scale to more once you confirm product market fit.
- Document your steps. A written process saves hours when you add new products or team members.
How Nigerians Can Get Paid from Amazon
When you set up an Amazon seller account Nigeria, one of the most important considerations is how you will receive your money.
Amazon does not pay sellers in cash. You need a reliable system that ensures your sales revenue gets from Amazon to your Nigerian bank account quickly and securely.
Payment Options Available to Nigerian Sellers
Nigerians can receive Amazon payments through two primary routes: Amazon Currency Converter for Sellers (ACCS) and Payoneer. Both are approved, but each serves different needs.
| Payment option | How it works | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Currency Converter for Sellers (ACCS) | Amazon converts sales proceeds into Naira and pays directly to your Nigerian bank account | Simple to set up, no third party account required, direct NGN deposits | Conversion rates are fixed by Amazon and may not always be the best |
| Payoneer Amazon Nigeria | Provides a virtual USD, GBP, or EUR account which you link to Seller Central, then withdraw to your Nigerian bank account | Flexibility to hold multiple currencies, choose when to convert, often better exchange rates | Requires Payoneer account setup and compliance checks |
How to choose the Best Payment Option
- If you want simplicity: ACCS is the most straightforward because Amazon handles everything and pays you directly in Naira.
- If you want flexibility: Payoneer allows you to receive payments in foreign currencies and decide when to convert, which can help you manage exchange rate fluctuations.
Settlement Cycles and Cash Flow
Amazon usually pays sellers every two weeks. Payments are transferred to your chosen payout method after deducting referral fees, fulfilment fees, and other charges.
| Factor | Detail | Impact for Nigerian sellers |
|---|---|---|
| Settlement cycle | Every 14 days | Plan your cash flow accordingly |
| Fees deducted | Referral fees, FBA or FBM costs, subscription | Ensure you calculate net profit not gross revenue |
| Reserve periods | Amazon may hold a portion of funds for returns or disputes | Maintain a working capital buffer to cover restocking and ads |
Tips for Smooth Payments
- Ensure your bank account or Payoneer account name matches the name on your Amazon seller account Nigeria.
- Double-check your bank details to avoid payout delays.
- Reconcile your payouts with Amazon statements to understand actual profits.
What Products Should You Sell from Nigeria
Choosing the right products is one of the most important steps when learning how to sell on Amazon from Nigeria.
Your success depends on identifying products that are in demand, profitable, and eligible for listing on Amazon.
Product Research for Nigerian Sellers
Amazon offers tools like the Product Opportunity Explorer and Best Sellers Rank to help you analyse demand.
You can also use third-party software such as Helium10 or Jungle Scout. The goal is to find products with steady demand, low competition, and healthy margins.
| Research method | What it shows | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Best Sellers | Current top performing products by category | Helps you see trending niches |
| Product Opportunity Explorer | Demand patterns and growth data | Reveals categories with rising interest |
| Third-party tools | Keyword demand, competition scores, sales estimates | Gives a clear picture of profitability potential |
Local Products with Export Potential
Nigeria has unique products that can perform well globally, especially if positioned with strong branding and compliance.
| Product category | Examples | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Beauty and skincare | Shea butter, black soap, natural oils | Rising global demand for organic and African-made skincare |
| Fashion and textiles | Ankara clothing, leather sandals, handmade bags | Unique designs with cultural appeal |
| Food and snacks (non-perishable) | Packaged spices, dried hibiscus, groundnuts | Specialty African foods are gaining traction overseas |
| Arts and crafts | Carvings, paintings, handmade jewellery | Appeals to international buyers seeking authentic products |
Products to Avoid
Certain products are either restricted, expensive to ship, or have high return rates.
| Category | Reason to avoid |
|---|---|
| Perishable foods | High spoilage risk and strict import rules |
| Electronics | Competitive, high return rates, warranty issues |
| Oversized furniture | Very high shipping and storage fees |
| Restricted categories | Require special approvals that delay entry |
FBA vs FBM Considerations in Product Choice
Your product choice should also align with whether you plan to use Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA) or Fulfilment by Merchant (FBM).
| Model | Best suited products | Why |
|---|---|---|
| FBA Nigeria | Lightweight, small, high-demand items like skincare, accessories, packaged foods | Amazon handles storage, shipping, returns, and customer service |
| FBM Nigeria | Bulky, slow-moving, or custom-made products like furniture or artworks | You control shipping and fulfilment costs directly |
Smart Selection Tips for Nigerians
- Target products under 2kg to reduce international shipping and FBA fees.
- Focus on niches with consistent demand rather than seasonal fads.
- Check Amazon’s restricted products list before sourcing.
- Calculate your landed cost (production + shipping + fees) to ensure profitability.
FBA vs FBM — Which Model Works Best for Nigerians
When you sell on Amazon from Nigeria, you must decide whether to use Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA) or Fulfilment by Merchant (FBM).
Both models can work, but the right choice depends on your product type, budget, and business goals.
What is Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA)?
With FBA, you ship your products in bulk to Amazon warehouses. Amazon then handles storage, packing, shipping, customer service, and returns.
This model allows Nigerian sellers to tap into Amazon Prime customers, who account for a significant share of sales.
What is Fulfilment by Merchant (FBM)?
With FBM, you list products on Amazon but handle storage, packing, shipping, and customer service yourself. This option gives you more control but also more responsibility.
FBA vs FBM comparison
| Feature | Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA) | Fulfilment by Merchant (FBM) |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | Amazon stores your products in its fulfilment centres | You store products in Nigeria or abroad |
| Shipping | Amazon handles all delivery, including Prime shipping | You arrange and pay for shipping to buyers |
| Customer service | Amazon manages inquiries, refunds, and returns | You deal directly with customers |
| Costs | FBA fees (storage, fulfilment) in addition to referral fees | Lower fees but higher workload |
| Reach | Eligible for Amazon Prime and Buy Box advantage | Limited exposure compared to FBA |
| Best for | Lightweight, fast-moving items | Heavy, bulky, or custom-made items |
When FBA Works Best for Nigerian Sellers
- Products under 2kg with high sales velocity (e.g. skincare, accessories).
- Sellers who want fast delivery through Prime.
- Entrepreneurs who prefer Amazon to handle customer service and logistics.
When FBM Works Best for Nigerian Sellers
- Large, bulky, or slow-moving products (e.g. furniture, artworks).
- Custom-made items where production time varies.
- Sellers who want full control over shipping and returns.
Many sellers start with FBM to test demand with smaller shipments, then switch to FBA once they find a winning product. This reduces upfront costs and helps avoid high storage fees for unproven items.
See also: Who Is a Wholesaler? Meaning, Types, Roles, Benefits, and Challenges
Shipping Inventory from Nigeria to Amazon Warehouses
Shipping is one of the most important parts of how to sell on Amazon from Nigeria.
Whether you use Amazon FBA Nigeria or FBM Nigeria, your products must reach customers or Amazon fulfilment centres safely, quickly, and in compliance with international trade rules.
Shipping Options for Nigerian Sellers
| Shipping method | How it works | Best for | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct shipping to Amazon FBA | Send inventory from Nigeria through couriers like DHL, FedEx, or UPS straight to Amazon fulfilment centres | Lightweight, high-demand products | Higher courier costs but faster delivery |
| Using prep centres abroad | Ship bulk inventory to a prep centre in the US or UK, then forward to Amazon FBA | Sellers who want professional labelling and compliance checks | Adds another step but reduces rejection risks |
| FBM direct shipping | Ship products individually from Nigeria to buyers when orders are placed | Custom-made or low-volume items | Longer delivery times may affect customer satisfaction |
Export Compliance from Nigeria
Before shipping from Nigeria to Amazon FBA or FBM customers, you must comply with export regulations.
| Requirement | Why it matters | Nigerian process |
|---|---|---|
| NEPC registration | Mandatory for all exporters | Register with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council |
| Export documentation | Customs clearance and compliance | Complete NXP form, Commercial Invoice, Packing List |
| Quality and packaging | Protects goods and avoids rejections at Amazon | Use strong packaging, meet Amazon’s labelling rules |
Amazon FBA Shipping Standards
Amazon FBA Nigeria shipments must follow strict guidelines to be accepted at fulfilment centres.
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| FNSKU labels | Every item must have an FNSKU barcode unique to the listing |
| Carton labels | Each carton must carry an Amazon-generated label |
| Size and weight limits | Standard-size cartons preferred; oversized cartons may be rejected |
| Delivery appointments | Large shipments may require scheduled delivery to Amazon warehouses |
Cost Optimisation Tips for Nigerian Sellers
- Consolidate shipments to reduce courier costs.
- Keep product weight under 2kg where possible to avoid high dimensional weight charges.
- Compare courier quotes before shipping.
- Start small with test batches to confirm smooth customs clearance before scaling.
Amazon Fees and Profitability
Understanding fees is critical when learning how to sell on Amazon from Nigeria. Every sale attracts charges that affect your net profit.
If you do not calculate these costs upfront, you may end up selling at a loss even when revenue looks high.
Core Amazon Fees
Amazon charges several types of fees depending on your selling plan and fulfilment method.
| Fee type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Subscription fees | Monthly plan cost: Individual is $0.99 per item sold; Professional is $39.99 per month | A seller on the Professional plan pays $39.99 even if they sell no products that month |
| Referral fees | Percentage of the selling price, usually 8% to 15% depending on category | A $20 beauty product may attract a 15% referral fee, which is $3 |
| Fulfilment fees (FBA) | Charged for picking, packing, and shipping products when using Amazon FBA Nigeria | A small standard-size item may cost around $3 to fulfil |
| Storage fees (FBA) | Monthly fee for storing inventory in Amazon warehouses | Higher during peak months (October to December) |
| Shipping costs (FBM) | Sellers handling fulfilment under Amazon FBM Nigeria bear shipping costs directly | Courier fees from Nigeria to US or UK buyers vary widely |
Worked Example: Calculating Profitability
Let’s assume you sell a skincare product from Nigeria through Amazon FBA.
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Product cost per unit | $4.00 |
| International shipping to FBA | $2.50 |
| Amazon referral fee (15% of $20) | $3.00 |
| FBA fulfilment fee | $3.22 |
| Total cost | $12.72 |
| Selling price | $20.00 |
| Net profit per unit | $7.28 |
In this case, your margin is about 36%. This is healthy, but any increase in shipping cost or storage fees will reduce it.
Factors Affecting Profitability
- Product size and weight: Lightweight items cost less to ship and fulfil.
- Category referral fees: Vary across categories, so always check Amazon’s fee schedule.
- Seasonal storage fees: Inventory that sits too long in FBA warehouses attracts higher charges.
- Advertising spend: Sponsored Ads often account for 10%–30% of sales in the early stages.
How to Protect your Margins
- Focus on products with at least 30% profit margin after all costs.
- Monitor Amazon payments Nigeria statements closely to reconcile charges.
- Ship in bulk where possible to reduce cost per unit.
- Use FBM Nigeria for bulky, low-velocity products to avoid storage charges.
Entrepreneurs.ng offers a Comprehensive Business Plan Template in the Shop that helps you map out costs and forecast profitability before launching. This ensures you avoid hidden losses and build a sustainable Amazon business.
How to Launch on Amazon and Get Your First 100 Sales
Launching well is just as important as setting up your Amazon seller account Nigeria. The first 100 sales build momentum, improve rankings, and unlock reviews that drive trust.
Optimise Your Product Listing
A properly optimised listing is the foundation of how to sell on Amazon from Nigeria successfully.
| Element | What to include | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Primary keyword, brand name, product use, size or variant | Improves search visibility |
| Bullet points | 5 clear benefits and features | Increases conversions |
| Product description | Compelling story with secondary keywords | Educates and persuades buyers |
| Images | 7–9 high-resolution images, including lifestyle shots | Builds buyer confidence |
| A+ Content (for brand-registered sellers) | Enhanced visuals and comparison charts | Boosts sales and brand presence |
Run Amazon PPC Campaigns
Amazon Sponsored Products ads help new listings gain visibility.
| Campaign type | Purpose | Budget guide |
|---|---|---|
| Automatic targeting | Amazon matches your product with relevant searches | Start with $10–$20 per day |
| Manual exact match | Target specific high-converting keywords | Allocate more budget to proven winners |
| Manual broad match | Test new keyword variations | Use small test budgets |
Tip: Monitor your Advertising Cost of Sales (ACoS). Keep it below your profit margin to stay profitable.
Generate Reviews the Right Way
Reviews build credibility and improve your chances of winning the Buy Box.
| Method | How it works | Caution |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Vine (brand registered) | Provides products to reviewers in exchange for feedback | Only available to registered brands |
| Follow-up emails | Thank customers and politely request feedback | Must follow Amazon communication rules |
| Great customer experience | Fast shipping, accurate listings, quality packaging | Leads to organic positive reviews |
Avoid fake reviews or incentives outside Amazon’s system, as this can result in account suspension.
Manage account health
Amazon monitors seller performance closely. Keeping your account in good standing ensures smooth operations.
| Metric | Amazon threshold | Impact if ignored |
|---|---|---|
| Order defect rate | Below 1% | Account suspension risk |
| Late shipment rate | Below 4% | Loss of Buy Box and lower rankings |
| Pre-fulfilment cancellation rate | Below 2.5% | Damages seller credibility |
Growth strategy for Nigerian sellers
- Launch with one or two proven products to build experience.
- Invest in PPC early but scale down once organic rankings improve.
- Use Amazon FBA Nigeria for faster delivery and higher conversion rates.
- Track profitability with each shipment to ensure growth is sustainable.
Entrepreneurs.ng offers the Entrepreneurs Success Blueprint program, which provides practical strategies for product launches, advertising campaigns, and scaling operations. This program is ideal if you want expert guidance on building momentum beyond your first 100 sales.
Scaling Beyond the First Marketplace
Once you master how to sell on Amazon from Nigeria and secure steady sales, the next step is scaling into new marketplaces and adding more products.
This allows you to grow revenue, diversify risk, and build a stronger global brand.
Expanding into New Marketplaces
Nigerian sellers can expand from one Amazon marketplace to others once their account is verified and performing well.
| Marketplace | Why expand here | Key considerations |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Largest customer base and high product demand | Strong competition, requires marketing investment |
| United Kingdom | Easier logistics and shorter shipping times compared to the US | VAT registration is required for business sellers |
| European Union | Access to millions of buyers across multiple countries | Additional compliance such as CE marking for certain products |
| United Arab Emirates | Growing e-commerce market with less competition | Regional product demand differs from US and UK |
Adding New Products
Scaling does not only mean selling in new regions. Expanding your product range within Amazon FBA Nigeria or FBM Nigeria can multiply revenue.
| Growth path | What to add | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Complementary products | Accessories, bundles, or product variations | Increases average order value |
| Seasonal products | Festive or holiday-themed versions of your core product | Takes advantage of peak shopping periods |
| Private label | Branded products under your company name | Builds long-term brand equity |
Building Systems to Support Scale
Without proper systems, growth can quickly overwhelm a seller.
| Area | System to build | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Inventory management | Forecasting tools and reorder schedules | Prevents stockouts and excess storage fees |
| Advertising | Structured PPC campaigns with data tracking | Ensures ad spend stays profitable |
| Finance | Regular reconciliation of Amazon payments Nigeria with local accounts | Keeps you cash flow positive |
| Customer service | Templates and response workflows | Maintains account health and positive reviews |
- Expand only after you have achieved consistent profitability in one marketplace.
- Use data from your first products to decide which items to add next.
- Invest in branding — logos, packaging, and brand assets strengthen your presence across multiple marketplaces.
- Consider registering your company if you plan to sell in the UK or EU, as tax compliance is mandatory.
Entrepreneurs.ng can support your growth through services like business registration, our Entrepreneurs Success Blueprint program, and brand asset design. These resources ensure your Amazon expansion is structured, compliant, and scalable.
Nigeria-Specific Compliance and Risk Checklist
Compliance is essential if you want long-term success selling on Amazon from Nigeria.
Beyond setting up your Amazon seller account Nigeria, you must also meet local export rules, manage risks, and stay compliant with Amazon FBA Nigeria or FBM Nigeria requirements.
Export Compliance Requirements
Before shipping inventory abroad, Nigerian sellers must follow export laws.
| Requirement | What it involves | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| NEPC registration | Mandatory registration with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council | Ensures legal status as an exporter |
| NXP form | Document processed through authorised banks for every export | Required for customs clearance |
| Commercial invoice & packing list | Detailed documents showing product descriptions and values | Smooths international shipping |
| SONCAP certification | Needed for certain regulated goods (electronics, building materials, etc.) | Prevents goods from being seized at customs |
Amazon Compliance Checklist
Amazon has strict policies that apply whether you use FBA or FBM.
| Area | Requirement | Risk if ignored |
|---|---|---|
| Labelling | Every FBA item must have an FNSKU barcode | Inventory rejection at warehouse |
| Packaging | Strong cartons, correct dimensions, and weight limits | Delays, extra fees, or returned shipments |
| Restricted categories | Products like supplements, beauty items, or electronics may need approval | Account suspension |
| Customer service standards | Maintain low defect, cancellation, and late shipment rates | Loss of Buy Box and account health issues |
Common Risks for Nigerian Sellers
| Risk | How it appears | How to reduce it |
|---|---|---|
| Currency fluctuations | Profit loss when NGN weakens against USD or GBP | Use Payoneer to hold funds and convert strategically |
| High shipping costs | Courier charges cut into margins | Consolidate shipments and choose lightweight items |
| Verification issues | Delays from mismatched names on documents | Ensure consistent details across ID, bank, and tax forms |
| Long delivery times (FBM Nigeria) | Customers may complain about late deliveries | Start with FBA for small products to access Prime |
Smart compliance strategy
- Register early with NEPC and keep all export documents ready.
- Choose products that fit smoothly within Amazon’s unrestricted categories.
- Review your Amazon account health dashboard weekly to stay compliant.
- Plan shipping carefully to minimise costs while meeting FBA standards.
Conclusion
Selling on Amazon from Nigeria is possible and rewarding when you understand the process.
With the right documents, payment setup, and compliance in place, Nigerian entrepreneurs can tap into Amazon’s global customer base and build sustainable businesses.
The key to success lies in choosing the right products, keeping costs under control, and deciding between Amazon FBA Nigeria and FBM Nigeria depending on your goals.
Consistency with listings, customer service, and account health will set you apart from competitors.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Selling on Amazon from Nigeria
Can Nigerians sell on Amazon?
Yes. Nigerians can sell on Amazon. Nigeria is on the list of countries eligible to open an Amazon seller account. Once verified, you can sell on international marketplaces such as the US, UK, and UAE.
How do I open an Amazon seller account in Nigeria?
To open an Amazon seller account Nigeria, go to Amazon Seller Central, choose a selling plan (Individual or Professional), provide valid ID, proof of address, a chargeable debit or credit card, and complete the tax interview.
What documents do I need to sell on Amazon from Nigeria?
You will need:
- A valid government-issued ID (passport or national ID)
- Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement not older than 90 days)
- A chargeable Visa or MasterCard
- Bank account details for Amazon payments Nigeria
How do Nigerians get paid on Amazon?
Nigerians receive payouts through Amazon Currency Converter for Sellers (direct to NGN bank accounts) or Payoneer Amazon Nigeria (virtual USD, GBP, or EUR accounts that you can withdraw to a Nigerian bank).
Can I use Payoneer to receive Amazon payments in Nigeria?
Yes. Payoneer Amazon Nigeria is one of the most popular options. It allows you to receive in foreign currencies, hold funds, and convert to Naira at favourable rates.
Is Amazon FBA available in Nigeria?
Yes. Nigerian sellers can use Amazon FBA Nigeria by shipping products to Amazon fulfilment centres abroad. Amazon then handles storage, delivery, customer service, and returns.
Is Amazon FBM better for Nigerians?
Amazon FBM Nigeria works well for bulky, low-volume, or custom-made items because you manage shipping directly. However, FBA usually offers faster delivery, Prime access, and higher sales conversions.
How much does it cost to sell on Amazon from Nigeria?
Amazon fees include:
- $0.99 per item (Individual plan) or $39.99 monthly (Professional plan)
- Referral fees between 8% and 15% depending on category
- FBA fulfilment and storage fees (if you use FBA)
Shipping and customs costs from Nigeria are additional.
What products can Nigerians sell on Amazon?
Popular categories for Nigerian sellers include:
- Beauty and skincare (shea butter, black soap, essential oils)
- Fashion (Ankara clothing, leather sandals, handmade bags)
- Packaged food items (dried hibiscus, spices, groundnuts)
- Arts and crafts (jewellery, carvings, cultural designs)
What products should Nigerians avoid selling on Amazon?
Avoid perishable foods, oversized furniture, electronics with high return rates, and restricted categories that require special approval.
Do I need a company to sell on Amazon from Nigeria?
No. You can start as an individual with your personal details. However, registering a company in Nigeria provides credibility, supports scaling with Amazon FBA Nigeria, and is necessary for Brand Registry.
Do Nigerians pay tax when selling on Amazon?
Nigerian sellers must complete a tax interview (W-8BEN for individuals, W-8BEN-E for companies) to confirm they are non-US sellers. This prevents double taxation. Locally, you may still need to comply with Nigerian tax regulations.
How do I ship products from Nigeria to Amazon warehouses?
You can ship directly from Nigeria to Amazon FBA warehouses using couriers like DHL, FedEx, or UPS, or send goods to a prep centre abroad for labelling before delivery to Amazon. For FBM Nigeria, you ship directly to customers.
How long does Amazon take to pay Nigerian sellers?
Amazon Nigeria payments are settled every 14 days. Payouts are transferred to your chosen method (ACCS or Payoneer) after deducting referral and fulfilment fees.
Do I need NEPC registration to sell on Amazon from Nigeria?
Yes. If you are exporting physical products from Nigeria, you must register with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and complete required documentation like the NXP form for customs clearance.
How can I succeed as a Nigerian Amazon seller?
Success comes from choosing the right products, keeping costs under control, using FBA for speed, running ads to launch, collecting reviews, and maintaining account health. Having a clear business plan and support system also makes the journey smoother.
