ABUJA, Nigeria — The Federal Government has launched a programme offering free Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration to 250,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), a move aimed at formalising businesses and integrating them into the mainstream economy
The initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s business climate, improve transparency, and make it easier for small businesses to access government services, corporate bank accounts, and official contracts. By removing the financial barrier to registration, the government hopes to encourage more entrepreneurs to formalise their operations and benefit from the legal recognition that comes with CAC certification.
The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment has described the CAC as central to Nigeria’s economic framework, noting that reforms are being implemented to make registration faster, cheaper, and more accessible. The newly inaugurated CAC Governing Board has pledged a results-driven approach focused on improving efficiency and trust in the Commission’s operations.
To apply for the free registration, eligible business owners are expected to visit the official CAC portal or designated registration centres to complete the application process. While specific steps for the MSME programme have not been detailed, the standard CAC registration process typically involves name reservation, submission of business details, and issuance of a certificate of incorporation.
The Corporate Affairs Commission, established by the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990, regulates the formation and management of companies in Nigeria and maintains a public registry of all registered entities. The Commission also registers Business Names and Incorporated Trustees, providing a wide range of ancillary services to support businesses and entrepreneurs.
Business owners are advised to consult the official CAC website or contact the Commission’s offices for updates on the application process, eligibility criteria, and required documentation. As the programme rolls out, the Federal Government expects to significantly boost the number of formalised businesses, enhance tax compliance, and strengthen the overall business environment in Nigeria.
