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In Nigeria, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) oversees the registration of business names, limited liability companies, NGOs, and partnerships, ensuring uniqueness, enforcing corporate laws, and issuing official certificates.
Benefits of registration include:
- Ability to open a corporate bank account
- Access to business loans and grants
- Eligibility for government contracts and permits
The registration process is governed by the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020, enforced by CAC. Whether as a sole proprietor, LLC, or NGO, CAMA outlines the necessary steps and documents for registration.
Registering your business name with CAC provides:
- Legal identity for your business
- Separation of personal assets from business liabilities
- Increased credibility with customers, partners, and investors
Pre-Registration Checklist
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Before registering your business name with CAC, it’s important to have certain details and documents in place.
Choose a Unique Business Name
The CAC will not approve names that are already in use, misleading, or restricted.
- Brainstorm 2–3 name options in case your first choice is unavailable.
- Avoid names that imply government affiliation or include words like “National,” “Federal,” or “Cooperative” without special approval.
- Use the CAC’s public name search tool to check name availability before submission.
Decide on Business Address and Nature of Business
You must provide a physical address for your business, even if you’re operating remotely or online.
- The address should be in Nigeria and should be a location where official documents can be sent.
- Clearly define your nature of business (e.g., clothing retail, catering services, digital marketing).
- This helps determine if additional licenses or regulatory approvals are needed after registration.
Identify Proprietors and Their Information
If you are registering as a sole proprietor or a partnership, the CAC requires basic details about the individuals involved.
- Full legal names (as they appear on valid ID)
- Residential addresses
- Occupations
- Dates of birth
- Phone numbers and email addresses
Ensure the information provided matches your official identification exactly to avoid delays.
Prepare Valid Means of Identification
Each proprietor must upload a scanned copy of a valid ID during the registration process. Accepted forms of ID include:
- National Identity Number (NIN) slip or card
- International passport
- Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC)
- Driver’s license
Ensure your ID is clear and not expired.
Working Email
The CAC business name registration process is fully online, so you must have access to a functional email address.
- All communications and updates from the CAC will be sent via email.
- You’ll also need access to your email for account verification, payment receipts, and downloading your registration certificate.
Step-by-Step Guide to Registering Your Business Name with CAC in Nigeria
Registering your business name with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in Nigeria is a structured process that can be completed entirely online.
Step 1: Name Availability Search and Reservation
Before you can register a business name, you must first confirm that your preferred name is available and not already in use by another business.
How to Use the CAC Public Search Tool
The CAC provides a public name search tool that lets you check if your desired business name is available.
- Visit the CAC website at www.cac.gov.ng.
- Click on “Public Search” from the homepage menu.
- Type in your proposed business name and click “Search.”
- If the name is already in use or similar to another registered name, the system will notify you.
- If it’s free, proceed to reserve the name.
Tip: Consider checking at least two or three alternative names to avoid rejection.
Name Reservation Fee and Timeline
Once you’ve confirmed your desired name is available, you’ll need to reserve it through the CAC portal.
- Log in or create an account on the Company Registration Portal (CRP).
- Fill out the name reservation form with your chosen business names and nature of business.
- Pay the reservation fee (currently ₦500 as of 2025).
- Submit your application and wait for approval.
CAC typically processes name reservations within 24 to 48 hours. If successful, you’ll receive a Name Availability Approval document valid for 60 days, during which you should complete your registration.
Step 2: Account Creation on CAC Portal
To proceed with your business name registration, you’ll need to create an account on the CAC’s Company Registration Portal (CRP). This portal allows you to complete registrations, upload documents, make payments, and track application status.
Using the Company Registration Portal (CRP)
- Visit https://pre.cac.gov.ng/home and click on “Create Account.”
- Choose the account type: Individual (for personal registration) or Accredited Agent (for professionals like lawyers).
- Fill in the required details, including your full name, date of birth, nationality, phone number, and email address.
- Create a password and verify your email to activate the account.
- Once your account is verified, log in to start your registration.
Tip: You must keep your login details safe, as you’ll use this account to complete registration, access your certificate, and make future filings or updates.
Required Information and Valid ID
Before you can proceed with registration, the portal will ask you to upload a scanned copy of a valid means of identification. Accepted IDs include one of:
- National Identity Number (NIN) slip or card
- International Passport
- Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC)
- Driver’s License
Ensure that the ID matches the personal details you entered during account creation. Any mismatch can result in delays or rejection of your application.
Step 3: Completing the Business Name Registration Form (BN-1)
After your business name has been reserved and your CAC portal account is active, the next step is to fill out and submit the Business Name Registration Form (BN-1). This is the core of the application process.
Details to Fill In
The BN-1 form collects key information about your business and the people behind it. Be sure to fill in all sections accurately:
- Approved Business Name: Use the exact name from your CAC name reservation approval.
- Business Address: Provide the physical location of your business in Nigeria.
- Nature of Business: Describe what your business does (e.g., food delivery, tailoring, mobile app development).
- Proprietor Details: Include names, occupations, addresses, and dates of birth of all business owners.
- Commencement Date: The date your business began or will begin operations.
- Email and Phone Number: Contact information for official communication.
Take time to double-check spellings and numbers, errors can lead to rejection or future legal issues.
Uploading Required Documents
You’ll need to upload supporting documents before submitting the BN-1 form. These include:
- Means of Identification: Valid ID for each proprietor (NIN, passport, PVC, or driver’s license).
- Passport Photograph: A clear, recent photo of the proprietor(s).
- Signature: A scanned signature may be required depending on the portal’s latest configuration.
Ensure that your documents are:
- Clear and legible
- In accepted formats (typically PDF or JPEG)
- Under the maximum upload size specified on the portal
Once completed and submitted, you’ll be prompted to pay the official registration fee to proceed.
Step 4: Payment of Registration Fees
Once you've completed the Business Name Registration Form (BN-1) and uploaded all necessary documents, the next step is to pay the official registration fees through the CAC portal.
Current Fee Structure
As of 2025, the official fees for registering a business name with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) are:
- Name Reservation Fee: ₦500
- Business Name Registration Fee: ₦10,000
Please note that additional charges may apply if you opt for expedited services or require certified true copies of documents.
After making the payment, ensure you download and save the payment receipt. This receipt serves as proof of payment and may be required for future reference or in case of any discrepancies.
Step 5: Submission and Review by CAC
After completing the registration form and paying the required fees, your application is officially submitted to the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) for review.
Review Timeline
Once submitted, the CAC typically takes 1 to 3 working days to review and process business name registrations. However, timelines can vary depending on:
- Volume of applications at the time
- Completeness and accuracy of your submission
- Public holidays or technical issues on the portal
Applicants will receive updates via email once the review is complete. If approved, the CAC will issue a Certificate of Registration and Status Report, which can be downloaded from your portal dashboard.
Common Mistakes That Cause Delays
To avoid unnecessary setbacks, double-check your application for the following common issues:
- Inconsistent information between your ID and form details (e.g., name spellings)
- Incorrect or vague business activity descriptions
- Poor-quality document uploads, such as blurry ID scans or incomplete pages
- Using a business name that’s different from the reserved name
- Failure to upload a passport photo or signature when required
- Expired means of identification
Correcting any of these errors often requires a fresh submission or formal complaint, which can add days or even weeks to your registration timeline.
Step 6: Downloading Your Certificate of Registration
Once your business name registration has been approved, you’ll receive access to your official registration documents through the CAC portal. This final step confirms that your business is legally recognized in Nigeria.
How to Verify Your Business Name
Before downloading your certificate, it’s a good idea to verify that your business name has been officially listed.
- Log in to the Company Registration Portal (CRP).
- Navigate to the “Registered Businesses” section.
- Use the search feature to confirm your business name is listed and correctly spelled.
- Alternatively, visit the CAC Public Search Tool to verify by name or registration number.
This verification ensures that your name is active in the national registry and prevents future disputes or confusion.
What Comes in the Registration Pack
Once verification is complete, you can download the full registration pack, which typically includes:
- Certificate of Registration (PDF): This is your official proof of business name registration and may be required by banks, government agencies, or partners.
- CAC Status Report: A detailed document showing your business name, registration number, nature of business, and details of the proprietor(s).
- Payment Receipt: Proof of registration fee payment, which may be needed for future CAC filings or amendments.
Save digital copies of these documents and consider printing them for physical safekeeping. They may be required when opening a corporate bank account, applying for loans, or filing taxes.
Cost Breakdown of Business Name Registration
CAC Official Fees
These are the mandatory fees paid directly to the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC):
- Name Reservation Fee: ₦500
- Business Name Registration Fee: ₦10,000
- Certified True Copies (if needed): ₦2,000 – ₦5,000 (optional)
NOTE: These payments are made online through the CAC portal and are non-refundable once processed.
Post-Registration Obligations and Next Steps
Registering your business name with the CAC is only the beginning. To fully operate as a compliant and professional entity in Nigeria, there are essential steps you need to take after registration.
Getting Your TIN (Tax Identification Number) from FIRS
A Tax Identification Number (TIN) is required for all registered businesses in Nigeria. It enables you to pay taxes, apply for government contracts, and open a corporate bank account.
- Visit the FIRS TIN registration portal or go to the nearest FIRS office.
- Submit a copy of your CAC Certificate and Status Report.
- The TIN is typically issued free of charge and processed within a few days.
- Some banks also help you apply for a TIN during account setup.
Opening a Corporate Bank Account
Operating with a business bank account improves financial credibility and separates your personal funds from your business income.
To open a corporate bank account, most Nigerian banks will require:
- CAC Certificate of Registration
- CAC Status Report
- Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Valid ID of the proprietor
- Passport photographs
- Utility bill or business address verification
Visit your preferred bank to confirm specific requirements and available account types.
Opening an Expense Account with Flex Finance
Operating your business with an expense account gives you full visibility and control over your business spending. It also helps maintain your budget.
Flex Finance offers the best expense management solution for your business in Nigeria. It is designed to simplify all aspects of your business spending. Once you sign up on Flex:
- Create your main business account (if not already done).
- Add dedicated expense accounts for each location, department, or budget category.
- Set budgets and permissions to limit overspending and maintain accountability.
- Review transactions in real time with Flex’s intuitive dashboard, exporting reports is hassle-free.
- Sync with your accounting software for end-to-end financial management and reconciliation.
Registering with Relevant Industry Regulators
Depending on your industry, additional regulatory registrations may be required:
- NAFDAC – for businesses involved in food, drugs, cosmetics, or packaged water.
- CBN – for fintechs or financial services businesses requiring licensing or compliance registration.
- SMEDAN – to obtain a unique business number and access SME support programs.
- NSITF, PENCOM, and ITF – for businesses with staff, to comply with labour and pension laws.
Research the specific requirements for your industry and apply early to avoid disruptions or penalties.
Benefits of Registering Your Business Name
Registering your business name with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) provides a solid legal and professional foundation for your operations.
Legal Recognition and Protection
Once registered, your business gains legal status under Nigerian law.
- Your business name becomes exclusively yours, preventing others from registering or operating under the same name.
- You can sue and be sued in the name of the business.
- It formalizes your operations and provides a clear structure for growth and compliance.
Access to Financial Services and Funding
Most financial institutions and investors require a registered business before offering support.
- Banks require CAC documents to open a corporate account.
- Grant bodies and microfinance institutions often request business registration as a pre-qualification.
- Investors view registered businesses as more credible and structured, making them more likely to invest.
Ability to Bid for Contracts and Apply for Licenses
Government and corporate entities typically require business registration as a condition for partnership or procurement.
- Enables participation in tenders and contract bidding (especially public sector projects).
- Required for obtaining regulatory licenses and permits (e.g., from NAFDAC, NCC, or CBN).
- Helps you operate legally in regulated industries without the risk of sanctions.
Builds Trust with Customers and Partners
A registered business sends a strong signal of legitimacy and professionalism.
- Customers feel more secure transacting with a formally recognized entity.
- Business partners are more likely to engage with a registered business for collaborations and referrals.
- It enhances your brand image, especially when paired with consistent online presence and quality service.
Conclusion
Registering your business with the CAC is essential for establishing a credible, legally recognized business in Nigeria. It opens doors to funding, partnerships, and long-term growth. But registration is just the beginning, how you manage your finances determines how far your business goes.
That’s where Flex Finance comes in. We help you track spending, control budgets, and streamline expense approvals, all in one place.
Sign up now to take control of your business finances and scale with confidence.
FAQs
1. Can I Register More Than One Business Name?
Yes, you can register multiple business names with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), provided each business has a unique name and complies with the registration requirements. Each business will require separate registration and payment.
2. What if My Business Name Is Already Taken?
If your preferred business name is already taken, you will need to choose another name. You can use the CAC’s public name search tool to check name availability. If the name is taken, you’ll receive a notification, and you can try alternative names until you find one that’s available.
3. Can I Change My Business Name Later?
Yes, you can change your business name after registration by filing a formal application with CAC. You’ll need to pay the applicable fees and follow the process for name amendment. Ensure the new name is available for use by conducting a name search before applying for the change.
4. Is There a Penalty for Operating Without Registration?
Yes, operating a business without registration in Nigeria can lead to penalties or legal consequences. If caught, you may be subject to fines, inability to access formal financial services, and the inability to bid for government contracts. It’s crucial to ensure your business is properly registered to avoid such issues.
5. Can I Register a Business Name Online?
Yes, you can register your business name online through the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) portal. The entire registration process, from name reservation to final approval, can be completed online. This makes the process more convenient and accessible for entrepreneurs across Nigeria.
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