🇳🇬 Federal Government Free CAC Registration for Nigerians 2025 | Step-by-Step Process

✅ Introduction

Good news for Nigerian entrepreneurs! The Federal Government of Nigeria, in partnership with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and other agencies, has launched another round of Free CAC Registration for 2025.

This initiative is part of the government’s ongoing effort to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), encourage formal business structures, and boost access to funding opportunities.

If you’ve been operating an unregistered business, this is your perfect chance to get your CAC Certificate at no cost— and we’ve outlined every step you need to follow below.

💡 What Is the Free CAC Registration Program About?

The Free CAC Registration Program is a federal government–sponsored initiative designed to help small business owners formalize their businesses by covering their CAC registration costs.

Through this scheme, selected entrepreneurs can register Business Names (Enterprise, Venture, or Services) completely free of charge, as the government or its partners pay the fees on your behalf.

This initiative is being implemented through:

• The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)

• The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN)

• And various state governments or private partners like banks and development agencies.

🎯 Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility may vary slightly depending on the implementing partner, but generally, you must:

• Be a Nigerian citizen or legal resident

• Own or operate a small or medium business not yet registered with CAC

• Be 18 years or older

• Have a valid means of identification (NIN, voter’s card, passport, or driver’s license)

• Have a functional email address and phone number

Some programs may also prioritize:

• Youth-owned or women-owned businesses

• Rural or underrepresented entrepreneurs

• MSMEs that have participated in government empowerment programs (like GEEP, YouWin, or NDE schemes)

🧾 Documents Required for CAC Registration

Before you begin, make sure you have the following ready:

• Proposed Business Name(s) (at least two options)

• Business address

• Owner’s details (name, date of birth, phone number, email)

• Valid ID card (NIN slip, voter’s card, passport, etc.)

• Passport photograph

• Digital signature (you can create one online)

🪜 Step-by-Step Process for the Free CAC Registration 2025

Follow these steps carefully to complete your registration successfully:

Step 1: Visit the CAC Registration Portal

Go to the official CAC registration website 👉 https://pre.cac.gov.ng.
If you’re applying through a partner program (like SMEDAN or Access Bank), use the link provided in the program’s official announcement.

Step 2: Create an Account

Click on “Create Account” and fill in your details — full name, email, and password.
You’ll receive an email confirmation link. Click it to activate your account.

Step 3: Reserve Your Business Name

Once logged in, click “Name Reservation” and input two preferred names for your business (e.g. “BrightTech Ventures” or “BrightTech Services”).
If the name is approved, you’ll get a Name Availability Code — this is important for the next step.

⚠️ Under the Free CAC Program, the name reservation fee is usually covered by the government.

Step 4: Complete the Registration Form

Click on “New Registration” → select Business Name Registration.
Fill out all required information including:

• Nature of business

• Address

• Proprietor’s details

• Upload ID card, passport photo, and signature

Make sure all entries match your identification documents.

Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents

You’ll need to upload:

• Means of ID

• Passport photograph

• Signature (in JPG or PNG format)

Under some free schemes, additional documents like certificates or business plans might be requested.

Step 6: Payment (If Applicable)

If you are under a fully sponsored program, your application will automatically show “PAID” status.
If partial payment is required, you can pay online using Remita or your debit card directly on the CAC portal.

Step 7: Submit Application and Wait for Approval

After submission, the CAC will review your application.
You can monitor progress by logging in and checking “My Requests” on your dashboard.
If there’s a query, respond promptly to avoid delay.

Step 8: Download Your CAC Certificate

Once approved, your Certificate of Registration and Status Report will be available for download in PDF format from your account.
Print and keep them safe — they serve as your legal proof of registration.

📢 Why You Should Register Your Business

Getting your CAC certificate opens many doors:
✅ Access to loans and government grants
✅ Ability to open a corporate bank account
✅ Legal protection for your business name
✅ Credibility with clients and partners
✅ Eligibility for local and international funding programs

So even if you miss the free registration window, it’s still worth doing — the benefits far outweigh the cost!

⚠️ Important Tips & Warnings

• Apply only through official government or CAC-approved portals — beware of fake links or WhatsApp scammers.

• Ensure your business name is unique and appropriate.

• Keep all login details and reference numbers safe.

• Respond to CAC queries quickly to avoid cancellation.

• If you didn’t get selected for the free slot, you can still complete your registration manually at a small cost.

🕒 Closing Thoughts

The Federal Government Free CAC Registration 2025 is a golden opportunity for Nigerian entrepreneurs to formalize their businesses and access wider opportunities.

Don’t miss it — start your registration early, ensure your documents are correct, and follow all official instructions.

A registered business isn’t just a name; it’s your gateway to funding, credibility, and long-term growth.

Have questions or need help registering your business?
Drop them in the comments section or contact your local SMEDAN office for assistance.