The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in Nigeria plays a central role in regulating the registration of businesses, companies, and incorporated trustees. To streamline its services, the CAC works with accredited agents who are authorized to assist individuals and organizations with their registration processes. These agents can only operate legally after obtaining a CAC Accreditation Number. This accreditation is critical for lawyers, chartered accountants, and chartered secretaries who wish to serve as intermediaries between the CAC and the public.
What is a CAC Accreditation Number?
A CAC Accreditation Number is an official identification code assigned to professionals who have successfully registered as accredited agents with the Corporate Affairs Commission. This number serves as proof that the agent is recognized by the CAC and authorized to process business name registrations, company incorporations, and post-incorporation filings on behalf of clients. Without this accreditation, professionals cannot legally handle CAC registration services.
Importance of CAC Accreditation
Accreditation is not just a formality; it guarantees professionalism, trust, and accountability in Nigeria’s corporate registry system. Some of the major benefits of obtaining a CAC Accreditation Number include:
- Legally recognized status to process CAC filings.
- Exclusive access to CAC’s online registration portal for accredited agents.
- Opportunity to provide corporate support services to clients across Nigeria.
- Enhanced credibility as a professional in law, accounting, or company secretarial practice.
- Direct communication and relationship with CAC officials.
Who Can Apply for CAC Accreditation?
Not everyone is eligible for accreditation. The CAC accreditation scheme is specifically reserved for professionals who fall under these categories:
- Legal Practitioners (lawyers licensed by the Nigerian Bar Association).
- Chartered Accountants who are members of professional bodies like ICAN or ANAN.
- Chartered Secretaries recognized by professional institutes.
These professionals must meet the requirements and submit the necessary documentation before being issued an accreditation number.
Read Also: How to Get CAC Agent Registration Form in Nigeria 2025
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Get a CAC Accreditation Number
The process of obtaining a CAC Accreditation Number in 2025 has been digitized to allow professionals to apply through the online CAC accreditation platform. Below is a detailed guide on how to get your accreditation:
Step One: Visit the CAC Accreditation Portal
Applicants must start by visiting the official CAC accreditation platform at pre.cac.gov.ng. This portal is designed to handle all applications related to accreditation, registration, and filings.
Step Two: Create a User Account
Before applying, you must create a CAC user profile by filling in your personal details including your full name, professional designation, email address, and phone number. This account will be used to track your accreditation application and future filings.
Step Three: Complete the Accreditation Form
Once logged in, select the option to apply for accreditation. You will be required to provide the following:
- Full name and professional title.
- Professional membership details (NBA number, ICAN/ANAN membership, or Chartered Secretary certification).
- Contact details including office address.
- Passport photograph in digital format.
Step Four: Upload Supporting Documents
You must upload scanned copies of the following documents:
- Evidence of membership with your professional body (e.g., NBA practicing license, ICAN membership certificate).
- Valid means of identification (e.g., National ID, International Passport, or Driver’s License).
- Recent passport photograph (clear and professional).
- Evidence of payment of the accreditation fee.
Step Five: Payment of Accreditation Fee
Accreditation comes with a fee set by the CAC. Payment is made directly through the online portal using debit cards or other approved payment methods. Once payment is confirmed, the system updates your application status.
Step Six: Application Review
After submission, your application undergoes a review by CAC officials. They verify your credentials, cross-check your professional membership, and ensure that all documents are authentic.
Read Also: How to Activate Business Name on CAC in Nigeria 2025
Step Seven: Issuance of Accreditation Number
If your application is successful, the CAC will issue you an accreditation certificate along with your unique Accreditation Number. This number is to be used for all future filings and registrations with the CAC on behalf of clients.
Documents Required to Get a CAC Accreditation Number
To summarize, the essential documents include:
- Valid professional license or membership certificate (NBA, ICAN, ANAN, or Institute of Chartered Secretaries).
- Recent passport-sized photograph.
- Valid national identification document.
- Evidence of payment of accreditation fee.
- Completed online accreditation form.
How Long Does it Take to Get a CAC Accreditation Number?
The duration for approval varies depending on the accuracy of your submission. Typically, the process can take anywhere from 3 to 10 working days. Delays may occur if documents are incomplete or if professional membership verification takes longer.
Validity and Renewal of Accreditation
CAC accreditation is not a one-time approval; it is valid for a specific period (usually one year). Accredited agents must renew their accreditation annually by re-validating their professional membership and paying the renewal fee. This ensures that only active and verified professionals remain on CAC’s accredited list.
Why Some Applications Get Rejected
Not all applications are successful. Some common reasons for rejection include:
- Submission of forged or invalid documents.
- Incomplete application details.
- Failure to pay the required fee.
- Lack of valid professional membership.
Official CAC Resources
For up-to-date information about accreditation, visit the official CAC website at www.cac.gov.ng or apply directly via the accreditation portal at pre.cac.gov.ng. These platforms provide official guidelines, forms, and updates on accreditation requirements.
Conclusion
Obtaining a CAC Accreditation Number in 2025 is an essential step for professionals in law, accounting, and company secretarial practice who want to legally assist clients with corporate registrations. The process, while straightforward, requires strict compliance with CAC requirements and professional standards. By following the steps outlined in this guide, eligible applicants can successfully apply and gain the accreditation that enables them to provide corporate support services across Nigeria.
