The Ultimate Guide to CAC Name Search & Business Registration in Nigeria (2025 Edition)
Introduction to CAC Nigeria
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is the official regulatory body in charge of registering businesses in Nigeria. Established by the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) of 1990, CAC Nigeria is responsible for the regulation and supervision of the formation, incorporation, and management of companies in Nigeria.
If you’re looking to start a business in Nigeria, understanding what CAC Nigeria is and how it operates is your first major step. The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is the official regulatory body responsible for registering and regulating businesses and companies in Nigeria. It operates under the legal framework of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA).
Founded in 1990, the CAC ensures that every registered business in Nigeria complies with government regulations. Whether you’re a small-scale entrepreneur, a freelancer, or a startup founder, CAC Nigeria provides the legal foundation for your business to exist, operate, and thrive.
Whether you’re a startup founder, entrepreneur, freelancer, or small business owner, registering your business with the CAC is one of the most crucial steps in establishing legal credibility and protecting your brand identity.
What Does CAC Nigeria Do?
The responsibilities of CAC Nigeria include:
✅ Business Name Registration: For individuals and partnerships.
✅ Company Incorporation: Including Limited Liability Companies (LLCs).
✅ Registration of NGOs: Under Incorporated Trustees.
✅ Regulation and Compliance: Monitoring and regulating registered entities.
✅ Issuance of Certified True Copies (CTC): Of registration documents.
✅ Business Name Search in Nigeria: To avoid duplication and name conflicts.
Who This Guide is For
Whether you’re:
A startup founder trying to build an MVP on a lean budget
A small business owner planning to reach more customers online
A freelancer or professional looking to showcase your portfolio
A church, NGO, or school needing an informational platform
Or even a developer or digital marketer pricing out services
This guide will help you understand what goes into website costs in Nigeria and how to make smart choices with your investment.
What You’ll Learn
By the end of this guide, you’ll understand:
What a website really costs in Nigeria — broken down by category
Which factors affect pricing (and where to save)
Tips to get value for money without cutting corners
How to avoid hidden fees and scams
What is a CAC Name Search in Nigeria?
A CAC Name Search in Nigeria is the official process of checking whether your preferred business or company name is available for registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
Before registering a business name or incorporating a company in Nigeria, the CAC requires you to conduct a name search to ensure that the name isn’t already taken or too similar to an existing one. This is a critical first step in the business registration process
What Does the CAC Name Search Do?
✅ Confirms name availability
✅ Prevents name duplication and infringement
✅ Reduces the chance of rejection during registration
✅ Ensures compliance with CAC naming guidelines
The process is done online via the CAC Nigeria name search portal at 👉 search.cac.gov.ng
Example:
Let’s say you want to register “Swift Concepts Ventures”. By conducting a CAC Nigeria business name search, you’ll find out if that name or something similar like “Swift Ventures Ltd” already exists in the CAC database.
If it’s taken, the system will display the existing entry, allowing you to choose another name or modify your proposal.
Why a CAC Nigeria Name Search is Important
Before you spend time, energy, or money on registering a business in Nigeria, conducting a CAC Nigeria name search is non-negotiable. It’s the first and most important step to ensure that your proposed business name is available and acceptable by the Corporate Affairs Commission.
Thousands of business name requests are rejected every month simply because users skip the name search stage or ignore CAC’s naming rules.
Key Reasons to Perform a CAC Name Search in Nigeria
1. ✅ Avoid Duplicate Business Names
If your proposed name is already in use or too similar to an existing name, it will be rejected. A search helps you know upfront.
2. ✅ Save Time and Money
Name reservation costs ₦500, and full registration starts from ₦10,000. A name search helps you avoid wasting money on names that won’t be approved.
3. ✅ Stay Legally Compliant
The Corporate Affairs Commission Nigeria has strict naming guidelines. A proper search ensures you comply before submission.
4. ✅ Protect Your Brand Identity
Imagine branding your logo, business card, and website only to discover someone else legally owns the name. A search prevents this.
5. ✅ Smooth Registration Process
Once your name is cleared during the search, your business name registration will move faster without any back-and-forth delays.
Expert Tip:
Always search at least 2 to 3 name variations. Example:
First choice: Swift Technologies
Alternatives: Swift Tech NG, SwiftTech Solutions, Swift Digital Hub
This gives you a backup in case your first choice is unavailable
How to Perform a CAC Name Search in Nigeria (Step-by-Step Guide)
Doing a CAC Nigeria name search is easier than ever with the Corporate Affairs Commission’s online search portal. Whether you’re on your phone or PC, the process is fast, free, and beginner-friendly.
Follow this step-by-step guide to check your desired business name availability:
Step 1: Visit the CAC Name Search Portal
Go to 👉 https://search.cac.gov.ng
This is the official portal for CAC name search in Nigeria
Step 2: Enter Your Proposed Business Name
In the search bar provided, type in the name you wish to register.
Example: Swift Digital Solutions
Step 3: Click the “Search” Button
The system will instantly scan CAC’s database and show a list of existing business names that are similar or identical to your entry.
Step 4: Review the Results Carefully
If your name appears in the list — ❌ it’s already taken.
If no exact match appears — ✅ the name may be available for reservation.
What the CAC Name Search Tells You:
| Search Result | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Exact name found | Name is already registered. Choose a different name. |
| Similar name found | May cause conflict. Consider modifying your proposal. |
| No results found | Likely available. Proceed to name reservation. |
Pro Tips for Effective Name Search
Use unique words or phrases that reflect your business niche.
Avoid generic names like “Global Solutions” — they’re usually taken.
Try adding words like “Tech,” “Hub,” “NG,” “Concepts,” or your location.
Important Note:
The CAC name search does not guarantee approval. Final confirmation comes after name reservation, which costs ₦500
Common Reasons Your CAC Business Name May Be Rejected
You’ve found the perfect name for your business—creative, catchy, and meaningful. But then… ❌ the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) Nigeria rejects it.
This happens more often than you’d think. Understanding why CAC may reject your business name can save you from delays, wasted money, and endless back-and-forth
Top Reasons Why CAC Rejects Business Name Applications in Nigeria
1. The Name Already Exists in the CAC Database
Duplicate names are the #1 reason for rejection. If the exact or a similar business name is already registered, CAC will decline your request.
🧠 Example:
If “Swift Global Ventures” is already registered, “Swift Global Solutions” may be considered too similar and also be rejecte
2. The Name is Too Similar to an Existing Business or Trademark
Even if the name isn’t an exact match, CAC may reject names that sound alike, look alike, or may cause consumer confusion.
⚠️ Example:
“GoogleTech Nigeria” or “Coca-Kola Ventures” will be rejected for imitating trademarks.
3. Use of Restricted or Prohibited Words
Certain words require special approval or cannot be used at all unless you meet strict criteria.
Restricted words include:
Federal, National, Government, Chartered, Municipal
Group, Holding, Foundation, Academy, Institute, Council, etc.
❗ If you must use them, you’ll need prior approval or supporting documents
4. Name Suggests Government Affiliation or Authority
Names that imply you’re part of a government agency or an official body are not allowed.
🧠 Example:
“Federal Health Council Ltd” or “National Business Bureau NG” will be declined.
5. Name is Misleading, Offensive, or Vague
CAC rejects names that:
Are vulgar or offensive
Misrepresent the nature of your business
Could deceive the public
🚫 Examples:
“Scam-Free Crypto Ltd” (misleading)
“Nigerian Mafia Group” (offensive)
“The Thing Company” (vague)
6. Name Includes Terms Reserved for Specific Professions
Certain words like Bank, Insurance, Legal, University, or Pharmaceutical are professionally regulated and can’t be used unless you’re licensed.
You’ll need approval from the relevant regulatory body (e.g., CBN, NUC, or Pharmacists Council of Nigeria).
7. Improper Formatting or Grammar Issues
Names that are grammatically incorrect, improperly capitalized, or include weird characters or numbers inappropriately can be rejected.
🧠 Examples:
“4U Ventures NG” (numbers at the beginning may cause rejection)
“quicklycashlimited” (lack of spacing)
“Best!Store_2025” (invalid characters)
What You Should Do Instead
Check the CAC search portal first: https://search.cac.gov.ng
Avoid common, generic, or existing names.
Include unique or industry-specific keywords.
Keep the name short, clear, and professional.
Search Google and social media too — ensure it’s not a known brand.
Prepare 2–3 alternatives in case your first choice is rejected.
What to Do If Your Business Name is Taken
You’ve searched for your dream business name on the CAC Nigeria name search portal, only to find out it’s already taken. Don’t panic — it happens to thousands of entrepreneurs every day.
The good news? You have multiple smart options to move forward without delaying your CAC registration in Nigeria.
Option 1: Try Name Variations
If “Swift Digital Ventures” is taken, try slight variations while keeping the essence of the name.
Examples of acceptable variations:
Swift Digital NG
Swift Digital Solutions
Swift Digital Technologies
SwiftDigitals Ltd
SwiftDigitech Ventures
✅ Tip: Add descriptive keywords like “Tech”, “Global”, “Consults”, or your location (e.g., Lagos, Abuja) to make the name unique.
Option 2: Reverse or Restructure the Name
You can reorder the name elements to create something fresh:
From Smart Connect Ltd to Connect Smart NG
From Green Hub Ventures to Hub of Green Ventures
Ensure the new structure still reflects your business niche.
Option 3: Combine Two Unrelated Words
Sometimes the best names are coined by blending two words uniquely:
Fin + Hive = FinHive
Quick + Nova = QuickNova
Brand + Nexus = BrandNexus
These names are often easier to get approved and stand out more
Option 4: Choose a Completely New Business Name
If all your variations are rejected or already taken, consider going back to the drawing board. Think:
What’s your brand mission?
Who’s your ideal customer?
What words reflect your service or industry?
Use a name generator if needed (e.g., namelix.com) or brainstorm with friends.
Option 5: Register as a Different Business Type
If the name is taken as a Business Name, it may still be available as a Limited Liability Company or Incorporated Trustee (NGO). These are separate registration categories.
But note: you’ll need more documentation, and the cost will be higher.
Bonus: Reserve Two Names
When applying for a name reservation on the CAC portal, you’re allowed to submit two name options in one form. If the first is rejected, the second will be reviewed automatically — saving you time.
💸 Cost of Name Reservation: ₦500
Important Note:
The CAC name search does not guarantee approval. Final confirmation comes after name reservation, which costs ₦500
CAC Nigeria Business Name Registration: Step-by-Step Guide
So you’ve confirmed your business name is available through a CAC name search. Now it’s time to take the next big step — officially registering your business name with CAC Nigeria.
This section will guide you step-by-step through the entire process, whether you’re registering as a sole proprietor or partnership.
What is a Business Name?
A Business Name is the simplest and most affordable form of registration recognized by CAC Nigeria. It’s ideal for:
Sole proprietors
Small businesses
Freelancers
Partnerships
Artisans and traders
Registering a business name gives you legal recognition, allows you to operate a business bank account, apply for loans, and build trust with customers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Register a Business Name with CAC Nigeria
Step 1: Create an Account on the CAC Portal
Go to the official CAC portal: https://pre.cac.gov.ng
Click “Create Account”
Enter your details (Full name, email, phone number, username, password)
Confirm your email and log in to your dashboard
✅ Tip: Use a Gmail address and make sure your phone number is valid.
Step 2: Conduct a CAC Name Search
Before anything else, make sure your name is not taken:
Enter your desired name(s)
Check for availability
If it’s available, proceed to reserve it.
Step 3: Reserve Your Business Name (Name Reservation)
Log in to your CAC dashboard
Click “New Name Reservation”
Fill in your proposed business names (you can submit two options)
Select the business type: Business Name
Enter a brief description of what your business will do
Pay ₦500 via Remita or card
🕐 Processing time: 24–48 hours
📩 You’ll receive an email when the name is approved. It’s valid for 60 days.
Step 4: Start Your Business Name Registration
Once your name is reserved, go back to your dashboard and:
Click “Register a New Business”
Choose Business Name (not company or NGO)
Select the approved name
Complete the form with your business details.
Information You’ll Need to Provide:
| Required Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Approved Business Name | From your name reservation |
| Business Address | The physical location of your business |
| Nature of Business | E.g., “Fashion Retail,” “Digital Marketing Services,” etc. |
| Proprietor Details | Full name, phone, email, residential address, ID, passport photo |
| Signature | Upload a scanned or digital signature |
✅ Pro Tip: Ensure your ID name matches the name used in your CAC account.
Step 5: Pay the Business Name Registration Fee
The official CAC fee for business name registration is ₦10,000
Pay online via Remita or with your ATM card on the CAC platform
Payment receipts are automatically recorded in your dashboard
Step 6: Upload All Required Documents
Documents required include:
Valid government-issued ID (NIN, Voter’s Card, Driver’s License, or International Passport)
Passport photograph (digital copy)
Signature (drawn or scanned)
Proprietor’s personal details
✅ For partnerships: You’ll need the information and documents of each partner.
Step 7: Submit and Await CAC Approval
After submitting the application:
CAC will review your documents and form details
You may be contacted via email if there’s an issue
If everything is correct, your application will be approved
🕐 Processing Time: Usually 2–5 working days
Step 8: Download Your CAC Certificate of Registration
Once approved, you’ll get:
🎓 CAC Certificate of Registration (PDF)
📄 Status Report of your business (summary of registration details)
✅ These documents are legal proof that your business is now registered in Nigeria.
You can now:
Open a business bank account
Apply for loans
Get a Tax Identification Number (TIN)
Do contracts with the government or big companies.
Summary of Registration Cost
| Item | Fee (₦) |
|---|---|
| Name Reservation | 500 |
| Business Name Registration | 10,000 |
| Total (Without agent fee) | 10,500 |
Documents Required for CAC Registration in Nigeria
Registering a business or company with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in Nigeria involves submitting certain essential documents, depending on the type of entity you’re registering (business name, limited liability company, NGO, etc.).
Below is a complete guide to the documents required for each type of CAC registration — tailored to both individuals and organizations.
A. Documents Required for Business Name Registration (Sole Proprietorship/Enterprise)
A business name is the most basic form of registration and best suited for small businesses, freelancers, and startups.
✅ Required Documents:
Means of Identification of the proprietor(s)
Acceptable IDs: National ID, Voter’s Card, Driver’s License, International Passport.
Passport Photograph (digital copy)
Completed CAC Pre-Registration Form (generated on the CAC portal after filling online form)
Payment Receipt
This is proof of payment for name reservation and business name registration.
Signed Business Name Registration Form (BN1)
You will download and sign this during the process.
B. Documents Required for Limited Liability Company (LLC) Registration
A Limited Liability Company (LTD) is a separate legal entity and suitable for businesses that want to scale, raise capital, or work with government/corporate contracts.
✅ Required Documents:
Means of Identification for all directors and shareholders
Valid Email Address for each director and shareholder
Passport Photographs (clear digital copies)
Memorandum and Articles of Association (MEMART)
This outlines the company’s objectives, rules, and structure.
Form CAC 1.1 – Application for company registration (generated online)
Proof of Payment
CAC filing and stamp duty receipts from Remita
Company Secretary’s Details (if applicable)
Share Capital Information
Number of shares and distribution among shareholders
Registered Office Address
C. Documents Required for Incorporated Trustees (NGOs, Churches, Foundations)
Registering a non-profit under CAC as Incorporated Trustees comes with more paperwork and formalities.
✅ Required Documents:
Application Letter (to CAC)
Constitution of the Organization
Trustees’ Means of Identification & Passport Photographs
Minutes of Meeting
Appointing trustees and authorizing registration
Newspaper Publication
Evidence of publication in 2 national dailies (one must be local to the area of operation)
Form CAC/IT 1 – Application for registration
Declaration by Trustees (deposed before a Commissioner for Oaths)
Evidence of Property Ownership or Tenancy Agreement
Proof of address of the registered office
Important Notes
All documents must be clear and legible (scanned or photographed).
Uploads must be in PDF or JPEG format, depending on the portal’s requirements.
Inaccurate or fake documents will lead to rejection or legal consequences.
How Much is CAC Registration in Nigeria? (Cost Breakdown)
If you’re planning to register your business with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), understanding the actual cost of CAC registration in Nigeria is essential. This section breaks down the official CAC fees for various entity types — so you know exactly how much to budget.
A. CAC Business Name Registration Cost
This is the most affordable and fastest registration option, suitable for small business owners, freelancers, traders, and startups.
Total Cost: ₦10,000 – ₦12,000 (as of 2025)
Cost Breakdown:
| Item | Cost (₦) |
|---|---|
| Name Reservation | ₦500 |
| CAC Filing Fee | ₦10,000 |
| Stamp Duty (if applicable) | ₦0 – ₦1,000 |
| Estimated Total | ₦10,000 – ₦12,000 |
💡 Note: If you hire a consultant or lawyer, they may charge a service fee ranging from ₦5,000 to ₦20,000 extra.
B. Limited Liability Company (LTD) Registration Cost
This type of registration is suitable for startups, established companies, tech businesses, and contract-based operations.
Total Cost: ₦25,000 – ₦100,000+
The price depends on your share capital, as the CAC uses share capital thresholds to calculate fees.
Cost Breakdown (For N1 million share capital):
| Item | Cost (₦) |
|---|---|
| Name Reservation | ₦500 |
| CAC Filing Fee | ₦10,000 – ₦20,000 |
| Stamp Duty (FIRS) | ₦10,000 |
| Professional Service (optional) | ₦20,000 – ₦70,000 |
| Estimated Total | ₦25,000 – ₦100,000+ |
💡 Higher share capital = higher fees. For example, a company registering with ₦5 million share capital could pay ₦150,000+ in total.
C. NGO / Incorporated Trustee Registration Cost
Registering an NGO (foundation, church, or association) under Incorporated Trustees is more complex and expensive.
Total Cost: ₦120,000 – ₦250,000+
Cost Breakdown:
| Item | Cost (₦) |
|---|---|
| Name Availability | ₦5,000 |
| CAC Filing Fee | ₦30,000 – ₦50,000 |
| Stamp Duty | ₦15,000 – ₦20,000 |
| Newspaper Publication (2 papers) | ₦40,000 – ₦60,000 |
| Legal/Consultant Fees | ₦50,000 – ₦100,000 |
| Estimated Total | ₦120,000 – ₦250,000+ |
💡 To save cost, you can publish in less expensive national newspapers and handle filings yourself through the CAC portal.
Optional: Other Registration Services and Their Costs
| Service Type | Cost (₦) |
|---|---|
| Change of Business Name | ₦5,000 – ₦10,000 |
| Annual Returns Filing | ₦2,000 – ₦15,000+ |
| Post-Incorporation Changes (Directors) | ₦10,000 – ₦20,000+ |
| Certified True Copy (CTC) Documents | ₦2,000 – ₦5,000 |
| Company Name Search Only | Free – ₦500 |
Common FAQs & Troubleshooting During CAC Online Registration
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I register a business without visiting CAC’s office?
✅ Yes. Most registrations are now done completely online through the CAC portal. However, you may need to visit for document verification in some cases.Do I need a lawyer or agent to register my business?
✅ Not necessarily. You can register yourself via the CAC portal, but if you’re registering a Company (Ltd, PLC, NGO, etc.), engaging an accredited agent/lawyer may save you stress.How much does CAC registration cost?
Costs vary:Business Name: ₦10,000 – ₦15,000 (excluding professional fees if you hire an agent).
Company (Ltd): From ₦25,000 upward depending on share capital.
Can I use my home address for CAC registration?
✅ Yes, you can use your residential address. Later, you can update it to an office address if needed.What is the difference between Business Name and Limited Liability Company (Ltd)?
Business Name: Simple, low-cost, suitable for sole proprietors/small businesses.
Limited Liability Company: Offers separate legal identity, better for growth, attracting investors, and protecting your personal assets.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: CAC Portal not loading or very slow
✔ Refresh or try again during off-peak hours (early morning/late night).
✔ Use a stable internet connection.
✔ Clear browser cache or switch to Chrome/Edge.
Problem: Payment issues (failed transaction but money deducted)
✔ Wait 24 hours; sometimes payments auto-resolve.
✔ Check “Transaction History” on the CAC portal.
✔ If unresolved, contact support@cac.gov.ng with proof of payment.
Problem: Name availability not showing results
✔ Ensure you’re using unique name suggestions.
✔ Avoid generic words like “Nigeria,” “Enterprise,” “Global” alone.
✔ Try alternative spellings or add a distinguishing word.
Problem: Upload error when submitting documents
✔ Ensure file size is below 5MB and format is PDF.
✔ Rename files without spaces or special characters.
Problem: Certificate not showing after approval
✔ Check your CAC dashboard under “Documents.”
✔ If missing, contact CAC support with your registration number.
✅ Pro Tip: Always keep multiple copies of your registration documents (both physical and digital). You’ll need them for bank account opening, tax registration, and future business processes.
Don’t Stop at Registration — Take the Next Big Step.
Registering your business name is just the beginning. The real growth starts when people can find, trust, and buy from you online.
Imagine this: while you’re sleeping, your website is working round the clock — showcasing your products, building trust with customers, and generating leads automatically.
You’ve already done the hard part by legitimizing your business. Now, let’s transform that registered name into a brand that attracts clients and makes sales 24/7.