The verdict in three sentences
Registering a business in Nigeria through the CAC (Corporate Affairs Commission) takes 1 to 3 days online and costs roughly NGN 10,000 for a business name or NGN 30,000-50,000 for a Ltd company, with no minimum paid-up capital in practice for small companies. A single online process covers registration and issues your certificate, while the TIN is free via the FIRS. It's the ideal starting point to invoice legally as a web provider or referral partner.
Why structure your activity before you start
A partner or freelancer who invoices without a structure takes risks: no compliant invoice, no TIN, difficulty opening a business account. Registering an entity — business name or Ltd company — lets you cleanly collect your commissions, deduct your expenses and look credible to clients.
In Nigeria, the CAC centralizes everything on its online portal. No more shuttling between offices: a single interface handles name reservation, registration and certificate issuance.
CAC costs and timelines 2026
The amounts below are a 2026 order of magnitude; they vary by structure and whether you use an accredited agent.
| Structure | Estimated cost | Minimum capital | CAC timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business name (sole) | ~NGN 10,000 | None | 1-2 d |
| Ltd company (small) | ~NGN 30,000-50,000 | Nominal | 1-3 d |
| Ltd company (larger share capital) | Higher filing fees | Per share capital | 2-4 d |
| Incorporated trustees / NGO | Higher, agent-led | None | Weeks |
The nominal share capital for small companies is a real advantage: you can start a Ltd without tying up cash.
Documents and steps to prepare
The file stays light. Gathering documents in advance avoids back-and-forth and keeps the 1-3 day timeline.
| Step | Document / action | Where |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Identity | ID + passport photo | You |
| 2. Name reservation | Proposed name search | CAC portal |
| 3. Address | Registered office address | Lease or proof |
| 4. Details | Directors / shareholders info | CAC form |
| 5. Certificate | RC number issued | CAC |
| 6. TIN + account | TIN via FIRS, bank account | FIRS / bank |
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Afterwards you receive your RC number (certificate) and your TIN (tax ID), both essential to invoice.
Mini case study
Chidi, a community manager in Lagos, wants to become a Kolonell referral partner and invoice his commissions legally. He registers a Ltd company via the CAC. Total cost: registration fees ≈ NGN 40,000, completed in 2 days.
In his first month he brings in a Growth showcase (500,000 FCFA equivalent): 15% commission = 75,000 FCFA, invoiced cleanly with his TIN. His structure pays for itself on the very first sale, and he can now deduct expenses (phone, travel) from taxable profit.
FAQ
How much does a CAC Ltd really cost in 2026? Expect an order of magnitude of NGN 30,000-50,000 for a small Ltd, or about NGN 10,000 for a business name. With nominal share capital for small companies, there's no large sum to lock up.
How long until I'm operational? The CAC portal typically issues the certificate in 1 to 3 days if the file is complete. Allow a few extra days for the bank account and TIN.
Business name or Ltd company? A business name is faster and cheaper (~NGN 10,000) but doesn't create a separate legal entity. A Ltd protects personal assets and looks more serious to institutional clients.
Do I need an agent? Not necessarily for a simple business name or small Ltd: the CAC portal is self-service. An accredited agent helps for complex structures or incorporated trustees.
How do I link my structure to the Kolonell referral program? Once you have your TIN, you invoice your commissions (15% showcase, 12% e-commerce, 10% marketplace, 8% institutional) directly to Kolonell, paid by mobile money within 7 days.
Let's talk about your project. Register your structure, then join the Kolonell referral program: 15% showcase + 5% recurring, 12% e-commerce, 10% marketplace, 8% institutional. WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.
Mohamed Bah
Fondateur, Kolonell
Passionate about digital and entrepreneurship in Africa, Mohamed has been helping Sénégalese businesses with their digital transformation since 2020. Founder of Kolonell, he believes every SME deserves a professional and accessible online présence.
