The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is the official regulatory body responsible for company and business name registration in Nigeria.
Whether you are a startup founder, an SME owner, or a large corporate group, understanding the requirements for CAC registration in 2025 is critical for compliance and successful business operations.
Understanding CAC Registration in 2025
CAC registration is the process of legally incorporating a business entity under the laws of Nigeria.
This includes business names, limited liability companies (LLCs), public limited companies (PLCs), incorporated trustees, and specialized structures.
Registration gives a business its legal identity, allowing it to own assets, open bank accounts, sue or be sued, and access government contracts.
The CAC has also integrated technology through its online registration portal,
making it possible to submit applications, upload documents, and pay fees electronically without physically visiting a CAC office.
Read Also: CAC Public Search Portal by RC Number in 2025
General Requirements for CAC Registration 2025
Although requirements vary depending on the type of entity you want to register, certain general documents and conditions apply across all categories.
These include:
- Proposed business name or company name (to be reserved online via the CAC portal).
- Details of proprietors, directors, or trustees (including full name, date of birth, nationality, and residential address).
- Valid means of identification such as National Identification Number (NIN), International Passport, or Driver’s License.
- Passport photographs of owners, directors, or trustees.
- Email address and phone number for correspondence.
- Completed CAC registration forms submitted online via pre.cac.gov.ng.
- Payment of the required filing and stamp duty fees.
Requirements for Business Name Registration
For sole proprietorships and partnerships, the requirements are simpler compared to limited companies.
Business name registration is ideal for small-scale businesses and entrepreneurs who want to operate under a chosen trade name.
- Two proposed business names for availability search and reservation.
- Details of the proprietor(s) including full name, occupation, and residential address.
- Valid means of identification and passport-sized photograph of the proprietor(s).
- Email address and phone number for verification.
- Filing fee payment confirmation.
Once registered, the CAC issues a Business Name Certificate, which can be used to open a corporate bank account and enter into contracts legally.
Requirements for Limited Liability Company (LLC) Registration
For entrepreneurs who want a separate legal entity distinct from the owners, registering a Limited Liability Company is the best option.
The requirements for LLC registration in 2025 include:
- Two to fifty shareholders (individual or corporate entities).
- At least one director and one shareholder (can be the same person for a single-member company).
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (prepared by a legal practitioner or obtained from the CAC portal).
- Details of shareholders, directors, and company secretary (if applicable).
- Valid means of identification and passport photographs of all directors and shareholders.
- Residential address and contact details of all stakeholders.
- Statement of share capital and particulars of shareholders.
- Payment of stamp duty via the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
After processing, the CAC issues a Certificate of Incorporation, which establishes the company as a legal entity in Nigeria.
Read Also: List of Registered Companies in Nigeria with CAC
Requirements for Public Limited Company (PLC) Registration
Public Limited Companies are typically large corporations that raise capital from the public through shares.
Registration requirements in 2025 are more extensive compared to private companies.
- Minimum of two directors and seven shareholders.
- Minimum issued share capital as prescribed by the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020.
- Memorandum and Articles of Association detailing company objectives and governance structure.
- Details of directors, shareholders, and company secretary.
- Payment of stamp duty and CAC filing fees.
- Proof of registered office address.
Requirements for Incorporated Trustees (NGOs, Associations, Religious Bodies)
Non-profit organizations, religious bodies, and associations must register under the Incorporated Trustees category.
Requirements for 2025 include:
- Minimum of two trustees who must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind.
- Application letter to the CAC.
- Constitution of the organization outlining its aims, objectives, and governance structure.
- Trustees’ valid identification and passport photographs.
- Minutes of the meeting appointing trustees and adopting the constitution.
- Publication of notice of intention to register in two national newspapers (one must be a widely circulated daily).
- Payment of CAC filing fees.
Requirements for Company Limited by Guarantee
A Company Limited by Guarantee is typically used for non-profit ventures that reinvest profits into achieving their objectives rather than distributing them as dividends.
Requirements in 2025 include:
- Minimum of two members and one director.
- Objects of the company must be non-profit in nature.
- Consent of the Attorney General of the Federation for incorporation.
- Memorandum and Articles of Association.
- Personal details, identification, and passport photographs of directors and members.
- Proof of registered office address.
Benefits of Meeting CAC Registration Requirements
Complying with the CAC registration requirements in 2025 offers several benefits for businesses and organizations, including:
- Legal recognition and protection under Nigerian law.
- Ability to open a corporate bank account.
- Access to loans, grants, and investment opportunities.
- Eligibility to bid for government contracts and international projects.
- Enhanced credibility and trust among customers and partners.
Conclusion
The requirements for CAC registration in 2025 reflect Nigeria’s drive to simplify business incorporation,
promote entrepreneurship, and ensure compliance with global best practices.
Whether you are registering a sole proprietorship, a private limited liability company, a public limited company, or an NGO,
the process is clearly outlined through the official CAC website and its online portal.
By fulfilling the necessary requirements, you not only secure legal recognition for your business but also position yourself
for growth, access to funding, and long-term sustainability in Nigeria’s evolving economy.
