Starting a business in Nigeria is an exciting venture, but before you can officially operate as a recognised legal entity, you need to register your company with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). Registering your business not only provides credibility but also protects your brand legally and allows you to access government and private sector opportunities.
This step-by-step CAC registration guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to register a company in Nigeria — from choosing a business structure to completing your application online.
Why You Should Register Your Company in Nigeria
Before diving into the process, let’s highlight the benefits of registering a business in Nigeria:
- Legal Recognition – Your business becomes a separate legal entity recognised by Nigerian law.
- Brand Protection – Your company name is protected from being used by competitors.
- Access to Funding – Banks, investors, and grants require CAC registration as part of eligibility.
- Corporate Opportunities – Many government contracts, tenders, and corporate deals are open only to registered businesses.
- Business Growth – It enhances credibility with clients, customers, and partners.
Read also: How to Register a Business Name in Nigeria: Step-by-Step CAC Guide
Step 1: Understand the Types of Business Registration in Nigeria
The CAC offers different business registration structures. Choosing the right one depends on your business goals.
- Business Name (Enterprise / Sole Proprietorship)
- Suitable for small businesses, freelancers, or startups with one or two owners.
- Lower registration costs.
- Easier compliance requirements.
- Private Limited Company (Ltd)
- The most common form of company registration.
- Separate legal entity (your personal assets are protected).
- Can have between 2–50 shareholders.
- At least one director is required.
- Public Limited Company (PLC)
- Suitable for large-scale businesses planning to list on the stock exchange.
- Requires a minimum of 2 shareholders and 2 directors.
- Higher compliance requirements.
- Incorporated Trustees (NGOs, Associations, Foundations)
- For religious organisations, charities, and social groups.
- Requires a Board of Trustees.
Step 2: Choose and Reserve a Business Name
Your company name is your brand identity, so it must be unique and compliant with CAC naming guidelines.
- Visit the CAC Portal to conduct a Public Search and check name availability.
- Submit two proposed names for the availability search.
- CAC will approve one if available and reserve it for 60 days.
Tips for Choosing a Business Name:
- Avoid generic names like “Best Enterprise” or “Global Ventures.”
- Ensure the name reflects your business nature.
- Don’t use restricted words like “Federal,” “National,” or “Government” without approval.
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
Once your name is reserved, you will need to prepare the following CAC registration documents:
- Approved name availability slip.
- Completed CAC application form (CAC 1.1) for company registration.
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (for Limited Companies).
- Passport photographs of directors and shareholders.
- Means of identification (National ID, International Passport, Driver’s License, or Voter’s Card).
- Utility bill (for proof of address).
- Payment of CAC filing fees.
For a Business Name registration, fewer documents are required compared to a Limited Liability Company.
Step 4: Complete Online Registration via the CAC Portal
The CAC has simplified registration with its online company registration portal.
Here’s how to register your business online:
- Go to the CAC registration portal.
- Create an account and log in.
- Select “New Company Registration.”
- Fill in the required details (company name, directors, shareholders, business address, etc.).
- Upload scanned copies of the necessary documents.
- Pay the prescribed filing fees using online payment methods.
Step 5: Pay CAC Filing Fees
The CAC filing fees vary depending on the type of registration:
- Business Name: ₦10,000 – ₦15,000
- Limited Liability Company: From ₦25,000 upward (depending on share capital).
- Incorporated Trustees: ₦50,000 – ₦100,000+
Additional charges may apply for professional services if you hire a lawyer or CAC-accredited agent.
Step 6: Obtain Your Certificate of Incorporation
Once your application is approved, the CAC will issue:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Certified True Copy of Memorandum and Articles of Association (MEMART) (for companies).
- Status Report / CAC Form 1.1 containing company details.
This certificate makes your business legally recognised. You can now:
- Open a corporate bank account.
- Apply for a TIN (Tax Identification Number).
- Register for VAT if applicable.
- Begin business operations officially.
Step 7: Post-Registration Compliance
Registering a company is just the beginning. To stay compliant, you need to:
- File annual returns with CAC.
- Maintain proper accounting records.
- Pay company income tax to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
- Renew business licenses and permits (depending on your sector).
Failure to comply may lead to fines, penalties, or even deregistration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on CAC Registration
1. How long does it take to register a company in Nigeria?
- Typically 5–10 working days, depending on document accuracy and CAC workload.
2. Can I register my business without a lawyer?
- Yes, you can register online yourself, but many business owners prefer CAC-accredited agents or lawyers for ease.
3. What’s the difference between a Business Name and a Limited Liability Company?
- A Business Name has no separate legal identity (owners are personally liable), while an LLC protects owners’ personal assets.
4. Can foreigners register a company in Nigeria?
- Yes, but at least one director must be a Nigerian resident.
5. Do I need a corporate bank account after registration?
- Yes, a corporate account is necessary for business credibility, contracts, and financial transactions.
Tools and Resources for Business Registration
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Register Today
Registering your company in Nigeria is a critical step toward business success. It not only legitimises your brand but also opens doors to funding, contracts, and growth opportunities. With the CAC online registration system, the process has never been easier.
If you are serious about taking your business to the next level, start your CAC company registration today.
