The Federal Government has reopened its free Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) business name registration programme, offering 250,000 eligible nano, micro, and small enterprises across Nigeria the opportunity to formalise their operations without paying the standard registration fee. The initiative is a joint effort by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and the CAC, targeting business owners who currently lack a CAC registration number and are excluded from the formal economy due to registration costs.
Eligibility and Target Beneficiaries
The programme specifically targets nano, micro, and small enterprises that have not yet obtained a CAC registration number. According to SMEDAN, these businesses often operate informally, limiting their access to financing, government support, and structured growth opportunities. By removing the financial barrier, the government aims to draw more entrepreneurs into the formal sector.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration approved the initiative as part of broader efforts to grow Nigeria's MSME sector, expand financial inclusion, and bring more businesses into the formal economy. Beyond registration, the programme is also intended to link entrepreneurs with business development support, skills training, and other resources to improve long-term business viability.
Required Documents for Application
Before applying, entrepreneurs are advised to gather the following documents:
- A valid means of identification: National Identification Number (NIN), national identity card, driver's licence, or international passport.
- A recent passport-sized photograph.
- A preferred business name for search and reservation.
- A valid business address.
- An active phone number and email address.
- Details of any other business owners or partners, where applicable.
- Any additional documents required based on the nature of the specific business.
Applicants will be required to upload their valid ID, passport photograph, and any other supporting materials during the registration process.
How to Apply via the SMEDAN Portal
Interested business owners can begin their application through the official SMEDAN portal. The process involves creating an account with a name, email address, and password, then completing a business profile with accurate personal and business information. During the application, applicants must confirm that the business does not already hold a CAC registration number.
After reviewing all submitted details, applicants can proceed to submit and wait for confirmation from SMEDAN if their application is selected. The application link is provided on the SMEDAN portal.
Previous CAC Initiative for 3,500 Businesses
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the CAC announced a separate initiative offering free business name registration for 3,500 small enterprises across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. This earlier programme also aimed to ease the burden on small business owners and encourage formalisation.
The reopening of the 250,000-business registration programme marks a significant step in the government's commitment to supporting small businesses. By providing free registration, the initiative is expected to boost the formal economy and enhance access to financial and developmental resources for entrepreneurs nationwide.
