Business Registration · June 2026
How to Register Your Business Name with CAC in Nigeria (2026 Guide)
Everything you need to know — and how to get it done fast without stress
If you are running any kind of business in Nigeria — whether online or physical — registering with CAC (Corporate Affairs Commission) is one of the most important steps you can take. A registered business name makes you look professional, protects your brand, and opens doors that unregistered businesses simply cannot access.
In this guide we cover exactly what CAC registration is, why you need it, what documents are required, and how you can get your business registered quickly and affordably through Gemezu Store.
💡 Did you know? A registered business name lets you open a dedicated business bank account, qualifies you for CBN and government grants, protects your brand legally, and builds instant trust with customers and clients.
What is CAC Business Name Registration?
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is the Nigerian government body that registers and regulates businesses. Business Name Registration is the most common and simplest type, ideal for:
- Sole traders and freelancers using a business name
- Online entrepreneurs and digital service providers
- Shop owners, market traders and artisans
- Anyone who wants to separate their personal and business finances
- Anyone who needs to open a business bank account
Once registered you receive an official CAC Certificate of Registration — a legal document proving your business exists in Nigeria.
Why You Need CAC Registration in 2026
1. Bank Account
Nigerian banks now require CAC documents to open a business current account. Without it all business money goes through your personal account which causes problems with tax, credibility and transaction limits.
2. Customer Trust
Especially for online businesses, customers verify businesses before paying. A CAC registration number they can check on the government website eliminates doubt and increases conversions.
3. Government Grants and Loans
CBN, SMEDAN, Bank of Industry and other agencies give out millions in grants and low-interest loans — but only to registered businesses. Without CAC you are automatically excluded.
4. Legal Brand Protection
Registering your business name means nobody else can legally use it in Nigeria. Your brand is protected by law from day one.
Documents You Need
- ✅ Valid ID — National ID Card, International Passport, Driver's Licence or Voter's Card
- ✅ At least 2 proposed business name options (in case your first choice is taken)
- ✅ Business address — your home address is perfectly acceptable
- ✅ Nature of business — a brief description of what your business does
- ✅ Passport photograph
⚠️ Important: Your business name must be unique on the CAC system. Before you fall in love with a name it must be searched and reserved first. One small mistake on the application form causes rejection and you start all over again. This is why many people use a professional agent.
The DIY Process — And Why It Frustrates People
1
Create CAC Portal Account
Register on pre.cac.gov.ng — the portal is often slow or unavailable
2
Search & Reserve Name
Pay ₦500 to check if your name is available. If taken, start over with a new name
3
Fill Application Form
Complete all fields online. Any error causes rejection and delays
4
Pay Government Fees
Approximately ₦10,000 – ₦15,000 depending on business type
5
Upload Documents & Wait
CAC reviews your application. This can take days to weeks
6
Download Certificate
Once approved, download your official CAC certificate
The problem with doing it yourself is that errors mean rejection and you restart the entire process. Many people lose time and money going back and forth with the CAC portal unnecessarily.
The Easier Way — Let Us Handle It
Gemezu Store offers a done-for-you CAC Business Name Registration service. You provide your details and documents, we handle everything from name search to certificate delivery. No stress, no portal headaches, no risk of rejection from simple errors.
Register Your Business Name Today
Fast, affordable and 100% legitimate CAC registration — handled professionally from start to finish.
View CAC Registration Service →
After Registration — What to Do Next
- Open a business bank account — Take your certificate to any commercial bank
- Get a TIN — Register with FIRS for a Tax Identification Number (free)
- Create a professional email — yourname@yourbusiness.com
- Set up Google Business Profile — Free and drives local customers to you
- Build an online presence — Website, WhatsApp Business, social media
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I register any business name I want? +
Your business name must be unique and not already taken on the CAC system. It cannot be identical or very similar to an existing registered business or well-known brand.
Can I register without a physical office address? +
Yes. Your home address is accepted as your registered business address. Thousands of online businesses in Nigeria use their home address for CAC registration.
How long does registration take? +
When done correctly with all the right documents, a Business Name registration takes approximately 3 to 10 working days depending on CAC processing speed at that time.
Does my registration expire? +
Business Name registration must be renewed annually. The renewal fee is much cheaper than the initial registration. We can handle annual renewals for you as well.
Is an agent-assisted CAC registration legal and genuine? +
Absolutely. The registration is still submitted through the official CAC government portal. The resulting certificate is fully official, legal, and verifiable directly on the CAC website at any time.
Make Your Business Official Today
Stop running an unregistered business. Get your CAC certificate and open doors to bigger opportunities, better clients and government support.
Get CAC Registration on Gemezu Store