In 2025, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) of Nigeria continues to maintain its public search portal, a digital gateway that allows individuals, entrepreneurs, investors, and regulatory bodies to verify the legitimacy of registered businesses by simply using the company’s RC (Registration Certificate) number. This online tool has become essential for fostering transparency, combating fraud, and ensuring compliance in Nigeria’s business ecosystem.
Understanding the CAC Public Search Portal
The CAC public search portal is a free-to-access online platform that provides official information about companies,
business names, and incorporated trustees in Nigeria. By entering a company’s RC number, you can confirm whether
the business is duly registered, its status (active or inactive), and access key registration details.
This system plays a critical role in promoting trust in the Nigerian economy by enabling investors, consumers,
and government agencies to independently verify corporate information. According to the
Corporate Affairs Commission,
the portal aligns with global best practices in corporate governance and digital verification.
What is an RC Number?
An RC number is a unique Registration Certificate number assigned to a company when it is incorporated with the CAC.
This identifier distinguishes one business from another and ensures traceability in official databases.
Every registered company in Nigeria must have an RC number, which can be used in the CAC public search portal
for verification purposes.
Read Also: List of Registered Companies in Nigeria with CAC
Step-by-Step Guide to Using the CAC Public Search Portal by RC Number
Accessing company information via the CAC search portal is straightforward. Here’s how to use it effectively:
- Visit the official portal: pre.cac.gov.ng
- Locate the public search feature on the homepage.
- Choose the option to search by RC number.
- Enter the company’s RC number into the provided field.
- Click the search button to display results.
The results will show the company’s official name, registration status, type of business entity (private limited company, PLC, or incorporated trustee), and in some cases, the date of incorporation.
Importance of the CAC Public Search Portal
The introduction of the CAC public search portal has transformed Nigeria’s business environment.
It provides transparency and mitigates risks associated with fraudulent businesses. Here are some of its benefits:
- Verification for Due Diligence: Investors and financial institutions can easily confirm the authenticity of businesses before engaging in transactions.
- Consumer Protection: Customers can verify businesses before making payments or signing contracts.
- Regulatory Compliance: Government agencies can track active companies and enforce tax compliance through integration with agencies like FIRS.
- Ease of Business: Entrepreneurs can build trust by sharing their RC number with clients and partners.
Challenges of Using the Portal
Despite its advantages, users sometimes face challenges when using the CAC public search portal.
Common issues include:
- System Downtime: Occasionally, the portal may be slow due to high traffic or maintenance activities.
- Limited Details: Not all company details (such as directors’ information) are visible to the public without an account.
- Errors in Records: Some older company registrations may have data inconsistencies that require correction by the CAC.
The CAC is actively improving its digital infrastructure to address these challenges, including integration with the
National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) for biometric verification.
Read Also: CAC Pre Incorporation and CAC Post Incorporation Registration 2025: Complete Guide
Impact on Business Transparency in Nigeria
The CAC public search portal has strengthened Nigeria’s efforts toward a transparent and accountable business climate.
By empowering stakeholders with access to corporate information, it reduces the risk of scams, encourages investment,
and aligns Nigeria with the digital transformation goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Future Developments in the CAC Portal
Looking ahead, the CAC plans to expand the functionality of its public search system by:
- Providing access to directors’ and shareholders’ details for compliance purposes.
- Integrating artificial intelligence for faster search and fraud detection.
- Allowing real-time certificate verification for contracts and tenders.
- Improving user interface and mobile responsiveness for accessibility.
Conclusion
The CAC public search portal by RC number is one of the most significant innovations in Nigeria’s corporate governance framework.
It simplifies the process of verifying businesses, enhances transparency, and builds confidence among local and foreign investors.
As Nigeria continues its digital transformation journey in 2025, the portal remains an indispensable tool for due diligence,
consumer protection, and economic growth.
