Everything You Need to Know About CAC Registration

As of March 2026, registering with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is no longer just a "good idea"—it's a critical legal requirement for anyone doing business in Nigeria. With the recent enforcement of registration for all PoS operators and the full implementation of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020, the landscape has changed.

1. CAMA 2020 Updates

The CAMA 2020 has simplified business for small entrepreneurs. Key features include:

Single-Member Companies: You can now register a private company with just one person.
PSC Disclosure: Mandatory disclosure of Persons with Significant Control (PSC) ensures transparency.
Common Seals: No longer mandatory for companies, simplifying document execution.

2. 2026 Requirements

Biometric Verification

NIN is now mandatory for all directors and proprietors.

Digital Address

A verifiable physical address with digital mapping details.

Note: Upon registration, your Tax Identification Number (TIN) is now automatically generated and included on your certificate.

3. Current Fee Schedule

Effective late 2025, the CAC updated its fee structure. For a standard Business Name, the registration fee is now ₦20,000. Private Limited Companies (LTD) start at higher tiers depending on shared capital (minimum ₦100,000 shared capital for local owners).

4. Compliance & the PoS Mandate

The Jan 1, 2026 deadline for all fintech agents and PoS operators to register is now in full force. Operating without a CAC certificate can lead to account freezes and legal penalties.

Don't Forget Annual Returns!

Registration is just the start. Every registered business must file Annual Returns (starting at ₦5,000/year for business names) to maintain an "Active" status on the CAC public search portal.

Conclusion

Don't leave your business in the shadows. Get registered today and start building on a solid legal foundation.