CAC offers free registration for 3,500 small businesses

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has launched a nationwide initiative to provide free business name registration for 3,500 small enterprises across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The Registrar-General of the commission, Hussaini Magaji, disclosed the programme on the commission’s X account on Monday, describing it as part of CAC’s ongoing efforts to lower barriers for micro and small businesses.

“This initiative is designed to reduce the cost of formalising businesses for micro and small enterprises and to encourage more entrepreneurs to operate within the formal economy,” Magaji said.

He added that the move reflects the commission’s broader commitment to promoting entrepreneurship, reducing start-up costs, and supporting inclusive economic growth.

“In the spirit of the celebration, the CAC has announced free business name registration for 3,500 small businesses, to be distributed across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory,” the commission stated.

Magaji explained that the programme will allow small businesses to formalise their operations, enabling access to government services, financing opportunities, and broader economic participation.

Reflecting on the commission’s 35-year journey, he described the CAC as a product of vision, innovation and sustained dedication to national development. He noted that it has evolved into a technology-driven agency with a strong focus on efficiency, transparency, and adherence to global best practices.

The Registrar-General also announced plans for a collaboration with Google to strengthen CAC’s digital infrastructure and service delivery. He said the partnership would enhance the performance of the CAC portal and further improve the ease of doing business in Nigeria.

In addition, Magaji revealed the launch of a redesigned CAC website, featuring new digital tools such as an AI Lawyer and a business name generator.

“The AI Lawyer will provide instant guidance on CAC laws and procedures, while the business name generator will simplify the reservation of scalable business names,” he said.