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Registering your business name with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is a crucial step in operating legally in Nigeria. Whether you’re a sole proprietor, small business owner, or startup entrepreneur, formal registration protects your brand and makes your business eligible for contracts, loans, and growth opportunities.
TJ News Nigeria reports that the CAC has digitalized most of its processes, making it possible to complete registration online from anywhere in Nigeria.
Why Register Your Business Name?
Registering a business name with the CAC:
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- Grants legal recognition to your business
- Prevents others from using your business name
- Enables you to open a corporate bank account
- Builds customer trust and credibility
- Gives you access to grants, loans, and government contracts
Pay Attention To: CAC Registration Portal Login: Step-by-Step Guide to Register Your Business Name, Check CAC Status, and Access www.cac.gov.ng
Step-by-Step Guide to Register a Business Name in Nigeria
Step 1: Visit the CAC Portal
Go to https://pre.cac.gov.ng — the official CAC registration portal.
Step 2: Create an Account
- Click on “Register” to create an account using a valid email and phone number.
- Choose the appropriate user type (Public User).
- Verify your email address to activate the account.
Step 3: Conduct a Name Availability Search
- After logging in, click “Public Search.”
- Check if your proposed business name is available.
- If the name is free, proceed to reserve it.
Pay Attention To Common Legal Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Business in Nigeria
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Step 4: Reserve Your Business Name
- Click on “New Name Reservation.”
- Fill out the form with your preferred business name(s) and select the business type (e.g., Sole Proprietorship).
- Pay the name reservation fee (₦500).
- If approved, you will receive a Name Reservation Approval (valid for 60 days).
Step 5: Fill the Business Name Registration Form
Once your name is approved:
- Click on “Register Business Name.”
- Enter details such as:
- Business Name (as approved)
- Business Address
- Business Description/Nature
- Proprietor’s Details (name, gender, occupation, email, phone number, address)
- Means of Identification (e.g., NIN, International Passport, Voter’s Card)
Step 6: Upload Required Documents
The CAC requires:
- Valid ID card (for each proprietor)
- Passport photograph
- Signature specimen (scanned)
Step 7: Pay the Registration Fee
- Business name registration typically costs ₦10,000 (as of 2025).
- Pay securely online using Remita or card.
Step 8: Download Your Certificate
- Once approved, CAC will notify you via email.
- You can log into the portal to download:
- Business Name Certificate
- CAC Form BN1 (Business Name Registration Form)
Timeline for Business Name Registration
- Name reservation: Within 24–48 hours
- Approval and issuance of certificate: Usually within 3–5 working days after full submission
Requirements Checklist for CAC Business Name Registration
Before beginning, ensure you have:
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- Two business name options
- Valid email address
- Valid ID for each proprietor
- Business address
- Digital passport photo and signature
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I register a business without a lawyer or agent?
Yes. CAC’s online portal is user-friendly and allows individuals to register without third-party assistance.
2. Do I need a physical office address?
Yes. A verifiable business address is required, even if it’s your home or a co-working space.
3. Can I change my business name later?
Yes, but this requires filing a change of name application and paying additional fees.
4. Is there a penalty for not registering a business?
Yes. Operating an unregistered business may lead to penalties, especially if you deal with government or corporate clients.
5. Can a foreigner register a business name in Nigeria?
Yes, but it may require additional documentation such as immigration and tax papers.
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What you should know
Registering a business name in Nigeria through the CAC is now more accessible and efficient than ever. With just a few steps and proper documentation, you can formalize your enterprise and gain access to the full benefits of legal business operation.
TJ News Nigeria encourages Nigerian entrepreneurs to take this important step to legitimize their businesses and unlock growth opportunities.
For more updates on business registration, SME support, and CAC policies, follow TJ News Nigeria.
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