The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has initiated the process of striking off 100,000 companies from its register for failing to file annual returns and other statutory documents. Business owners have 90 days to regularise their records to avoid deregistration.
How to check if your company is affected
Business owners can verify if their company is on the list by visiting the CAC website. The Commission stated: "The list of the affected One Hundred Thousand (100,000) companies can be accessed at the Commission's Website." The exercise, designated Batch 6, is carried out under Section 692 (3) and (4) of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), 2020.
Steps to avoid deregistration
Affected companies are advised to urgently file all outstanding annual returns, including Persons with Significant Control (PSC) or beneficial ownership information, within 90 days from the date of the notice. After filing, evidence of compliance should be sent to the designated email address: struckoffcompanies@cac.gov.ng.
No second warning
The CAC warned that companies failing to comply within the stipulated timeline will be struck off the register without further notice. The Commission also reassured that it remains committed to improving its services.
Why annual returns matter
Annual returns are a legal requirement for registered companies in Nigeria, distinct from tax payments. They keep company records up to date with CAC. Failure to file for an extended period can lead to loss of legal status until proper restoration steps are taken.
