If you’re running a business in Nigeria that isn’t yet officially registered, you now have six weeks to comply, or risk being shut down.
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has issued a public ultimatum for all unregistered businesses to formalise their operations or face regulatory consequences.
This is part of a nationwide compliance sweep as the CAC partners with various regulatory agencies to clean up Nigeria’s informal business landscape.
What the CAC Said
Speaking in Abuja, the Registrar-General of the CAC stated:
“The grace period is six weeks, after which enforcement will begin. Any business operating without registration will be deemed illegal.”
The announcement comes as part of CAC’s push to:
- Enforce the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA)
- Boost Nigeria’s ease of doing business metrics
- Formalise more micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)
Why Registering Your Business Matters
If you’re still operating informally, on Instagram, WhatsApp, or from your living room, you’re putting your income, credibility, and growth at risk.
Registered businesses enjoy:
- Legal recognition
- Access to loans and grants
- Confidence from customers and investors
- Corporate bank accounts
- Eligibility for government tenders and funding
Who Is Affected?
The ultimatum applies to:
- Sole proprietors
- Online vendors
- Freelancers
- Artisans
- Side hustlers
- Agents and mini-importers
If you collect money for a service or product, you’re expected to register, no matter how small your business is.
How to Register Your Business with CAC
You can register a business name:
- Online via www.cac.gov.ng
- Or at any CAC branch office nationwide
The process usually involves:
- Business name availability search
- Payment of registration fee (₦10,000 – ₦20,000)
- Submission of personal/business details
- Approval within 3–7 working days (if no issues)
Use CAC’s self-service portal or consult an accredited agent if needed.
Formality Is Leverage
Registration turns a hustle into an asset.
With a CAC certificate, your business can:
- Build credit and borrow legally
- Partner with corporates
- Protect your brand name
- Scale with structure
What to Do Now
- If your business is unregistered, start the process immediately
- Check the CAC portal for guidelines
- Spread the word to other MSMEs — especially online vendors
- Don’t wait till the last week — penalties may include shutdown or legal action
Financial Juggernut Take
Formality is not just about compliance, it’s about unlocking opportunities.
Register your business. Protect your future.
