What a business name registration is
Registering a business name with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) allows you to trade under a name other than your own legal name. It is the simplest form of business registration in Nigeria and suits sole proprietors and partnerships.
The registered business is not a separate legal entity. The owner is personally responsible for its debts and obligations. If you need limited liability or plan to raise investment, a limited company may suit you better.
What you need before you start
- Two or more proposed names, in order of preference
- A short description of what the business does
- Your full name, address, phone number and email
- A valid means of identification
- A passport photograph and your signature
- The business address
The steps
- Check name availability and reserve an available name
- Complete the registration form with the owner and business details
- Upload identification, photograph and signature
- Pay the filing fees and submit
- Respond to any queries from the CAC
- Download your certificate and registration documents once approved
Common reasons applications get delayed
- Proposed names that are too similar to existing businesses
- Names containing restricted words without the needed approval
- Unclear identification documents or photographs
- A nature of business description that does not match the name
After registration
With your certificate you can open a business bank account, apply for a Tax Identification Number if you do not have one, and start issuing invoices in the business name. Keep your registration details up to date and file the required annual returns.
If you would rather not handle the process yourself, DAES can check your names, prepare the documents and follow the application through for you.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Requirements can change, so DAES confirms what applies to your case before you start.
Let DAES handle it
Send us a message and we will guide you through the requirements and next steps.