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The Ultimate Walkthrough for CAC Business Name Registration
Starting a business in Nigeria doesn’t need to be a bureaucratic nightmare. In fact, with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) digital portal, you can now register your business in just a few days—if you know the correct steps.
This article provides a detailed, humanized guide for entrepreneurs looking to complete their business name registration in Nigeria from start to finish. No fluff, no confusion—just clear direction.
Why You Need to Register Your Business Name
A registered business name:
- Builds customer trust
- Gives you access to loans and grants
- Protects your brand legally
- Enables tax registration (TIN)
- Helps you open a corporate bank account
Whether you’re launching a food brand, logistics service, or digital agency, business name registration in Nigeria is your entry pass into the formal economy.
✅ Step 1: Create an Account on the CAC Portal
Start by visiting the CAC e-registration portal. Click on “Create Account” and enter your:
- Full name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Preferred username and password
Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Verify and log in.
✅ Step 2: Reserve Your Business Name
Click “New Name Reservation” in the dashboard and enter two name options for your business.
Tips for Approval:
- Use unique, non-generic names
- Avoid names similar to banks or government agencies
- Don’t include terms like “national” or “group” without justification
Pay the ₦500 name reservation fee online using Remita or card. Approval typically takes 24–48 hours.
Once approved, proceed with your CAC registration.
✅ Step 3: Start the Business Name Registration
With your name approved, return to the dashboard and click “Register Business Name.”
You’ll need to enter the following:
- Approved name
- Business address
- Nature of business
- Details of proprietors (name, DOB, ID type, address)
Save each section before proceeding. You can always log out and return later.
✅ Step 4: Upload Required Documents
At this stage, you’ll need to upload:
- Valid ID (NIN, Voter’s Card, Passport, or Driver’s License)
- Passport photograph
- Utility bill (NEPA, water, etc.) for address confirmation
Each file must be clear and properly labeled. Poor-quality scans may cause rejection.
Tip: Use a free app like CamScanner for clean, cropped uploads.
✅ Step 5: Pay the Registration Fee
The standard CAC registration fee is ₦10,000.
You can pay via:
- Remita
- Debit card
- Bank transfer (with reference number)
Keep a copy of your payment receipt or screenshot—it confirms your transaction in case of issues.
✅ Step 6: Submit for Processing
Once payment is confirmed, submit your application.
The CAC will review:
- Your information
- Uploaded documents
- Name reservation status
- Payment confirmation
If everything checks out, you’ll receive your Certificate of Registration and Status Report in PDF format via email within 3–7 working days.
Congratulations—you’ve completed your business name registration in Nigeria!
✅ Step 7: Download & Store Your Certificate
Your CAC Certificate is your business’ legal proof of existence. Print it out, save multiple backups, and share it when applying for:
- Business loans
- Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Corporate bank account
- Government grants or competitions
✅ Step 8: Register for TIN (Tax ID)
After successful CAC registration, head to the FIRS Tax Portal or visit the nearest FIRS office to get your Tax Identification Number (TIN). It’s free and required for:
- Invoicing
- Paying taxes
- Import/export transactions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does CAC registration take?
Usually 3–7 working days, depending on document accuracy and payment confirmation.
Can I register without a lawyer?
Yes. The CAC portal is user-friendly, and you can do everything yourself.
Is my business protected nationwide?
Yes. Once registered, your name is exclusive in all 36 states of Nigeria.
Can I register from outside Nigeria?
Yes. As long as you have the required documents and internet access, the process is 100% online.
Mistakes to Avoid During Registration
Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Mismatched names across documents
- Blurry or low-resolution uploads
- Using a name that’s already taken
- Skipping payment steps or ignoring confirmation emails
Correcting these after submission may delay your business name registration in Nigeria by weeks.
Final Thoughts: Simplicity is the New Power
Registering a business name used to be tedious and paper-heavy. But today, Nigeria’s CAC has made the process digital, fast, and accessible. As long as you follow the steps outlined above and prepare your documents correctly, you’ll have your business registered legally within days.
Simplicity fuels momentum. Don’t delay—start your business name registration in Nigeria today and enter the formal economy with confidence.
