Registering a business name in Nigeria is a vital step for any entrepreneur looking to operate legally and build trust with customers, partners, and investors.
Whether you're starting a
small online store, a tech startup, or a consulting business, registering with
the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) gives your business legitimacy and opens
the door to opportunities like opening a corporate bank account, applying for
loans, and working with large clients.
In this article, we’ll walk you
through everything you need to know about how to register a business name with
CAC Nigeria — from eligibility and requirements to fees, timelines, and common
mistakes to avoid.
Why Register Your Business Name with CAC?
Here’s why registering your business is more than just a formality:
- Legal recognition
- Protection of your business name
- Access to loans and grants
- Corporate bank account setup
- Better trust and credibility
The CAC is the official government
body responsible for registering and regulating businesses in Nigeria, as
empowered by the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA).
Types of Business Structures You Can
Register
The CAC offers several business
structures, but for most small business owners and entrepreneurs, the simplest
and most affordable option is a Business Name Registration (Sole Proprietorship
or Partnership).
Other forms include:
- Private Limited Liability Company (Ltd)
- Incorporated Trustees (for NGOs)
- Public Limited Companies (Plc)
This guide focuses on registering a
business name, the most common entry point for small businesses.
Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a
Business Name with CAC
Step 1: Check for Name Availability
Before anything else, you need to choose a unique business name and confirm that it’s available.
- Go to the CAC website: https://pre.cac.gov.ng
- Click “Public Search”
- Type in your proposed name to see if it's taken
Tip: Pick a name that is not too
generic or too similar to an existing company to avoid rejection.
Step 2: Create an Account on the CAC
Portal
You’ll need a personal CAC account to
proceed.
· Visit: https://pre.cac.gov.ng/register
· Provide your full name, email, phone number, and choose a password
· Confirm your email via the verification link sent
Step 3: Reserve Your Business Name
Once your name is available:
- Log into your CAC account
- Go to “Name Reservation”
- Fill in your desired business name (you can enter two options)
- Pay the ₦500 name reservation fee
You’ll receive feedback within 24–48
hours. If approved, the name will be reserved for 60 days.
Step 4: Fill the Business
Registration Form
After name approval, complete the Business
Name Registration Form (CAC/BN 1). You’ll be required to provide:
- Approved business name
- Business address
- Nature of business (e.g., fashion, tech,
agriculture)
- Owner’s full details (name, address, phone,
email, occupation)
- Passport photograph
- Means of identification (NIN, voter card,
passport, etc.)
Step 5: Pay the Registration Fee
The current cost for Business Name
Registration (2025 rates) is:
- ₦10,500 for registration
- Paid directly on the CAC portal via Remita or
online payment
Once payment is successful, you’ll
receive a receipt and tracking code.
Step 6: Submit Documents and Wait for
Approval
Upload the required documents:
- Application form (CAC/BN 1)
- ID card of the proprietor(s)
- Passport photo (in JPEG or PNG format)
After submission, CAC will review and
approve the application within 3–5 business days.
Step 7: Download Your CAC Certificate
and Business Documents
Once approved, you’ll receive:
- CAC Certificate of Registration
- Status Report
- Business Name Form (BN1)
These documents are valid proof that
your business is now officially registered in Nigeria.
How Long Does the Process Take?
- Name reservation: 1–2 days
- Business registration: 3–7 business days
- Total: Around 5–10 working days if all
documents are correct
Can I Register Without a Lawyer or
Agent?
Yes! The CAC portal is designed to be
self-service. You can complete the entire process online without a lawyer or
consultant.
However, if you're registering a more
complex structure like a Limited Liability Company, professional help might be
useful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Choosing a restricted or offensive
name
❌ Using
someone else’s ID or documents
❌ Incorrect
spelling or inconsistent information
❌ Not
submitting clear passport photos or ID scans
❌ Ignoring
follow-up emails from CAC
What Next After Registration?
· Open a corporate bank account — Use your CAC certificate and
business name documents.
·
Apply for TIN (Tax
Identification Number) — You can do this via FIRS or the CAC portal
(TIN is now generated automatically for new business names).
·
Promote your brand — Get a
logo, set up social media accounts, and begin marketing.
· Keep proper records — Even for a small business, keep invoices and
receipts to prepare for future growth.
Final Thoughts
Registering your business name with
the CAC in Nigeria is now easier, faster, and cheaper thanks to online
self-service platforms. In less than 2 weeks, you can legally operate your
business and gain access to bigger opportunities like funding, partnerships,
and international trade.
Whether you’re a student, side
hustler, or full-time entrepreneur, don’t postpone this crucial step. Your
business deserves to be seen, supported, and recognised — and it all begins
with registration.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Always consult CAC or a certified legal practitioner for official guidance.
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