The verdict in three sentences
Formalizing a business is no longer an obstacle course: in Nigeria, the CAC registers a limited company in 1 to 3 days online for around 20,000 to 35,000 NGN plus professional fees. Formalization unlocks access to tenders, bank credit and professional payments that the informal sector shuts out. Knowing the journey in advance avoids weeks of administrative deadlock.
The CAC journey step by step
Nigeria's Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) centralizes company registration through an online portal. The steps are standardized and largely digital.
| Step | Content | 2026 timing |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Name reservation | Check and reserve company name | Same day |
| 2. Documents | Memorandum, ID, address | 1 day |
| 3. Online filing | CAC portal submission | 1 day |
| 4. Registration | Certificate of incorporation | 24-72 h |
| 5. Business account | Open with certificate + TIN | 2-5 days |
The minimum share capital for a small private company is symbolic, making registration accessible even for a sole founder.
What it really costs
Beyond official fees, expect a few ancillary costs depending on the level of support chosen.
| Item | 2026 range | Note |
|---|---|---|
| CAC filing fee | 20,000-35,000 NGN | Main official cost |
| Documents drafting | 0-100,000 NGN | Free if standard template |
| Stamp duty | Variable | On share capital |
| Professional support (optional) | 30,000-150,000 NGN | Agent or consultant |
| Business bank account | Variable bank fees | Initial deposit required |
Going solo, a founder can register for well under 60,000 NGN all in; with full support, budget 100,000 to 250,000 NGN.
Mini case study
Musa sells IT maintenance services in Lagos informally. He loses a public tender worth the equivalent of 4,000,000 FCFA for lack of a registration certificate and TIN. He registers his limited company with the CAC in 72 hours for 30,000 NGN in official fees, plus stamp duty. Three weeks later, he wins a contract worth the equivalent of 2,500,000 FCFA reserved for formal companies. His formalization, repaid on the first contract, gives him lasting access to B2B markets.
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FAQ
How long to register a company with the CAC in 2026?
Expect 1 to 3 days for incorporation once the complete file is filed online. Opening the business bank account adds 2 to 5 days.
What is the minimum total cost?
Going solo, a founder can manage for under 60,000 NGN (CAC fee + stamp duty). With a support agent, the budget rises to 100,000-250,000 NGN.
Is a TIN mandatory?
Yes. The Tax Identification Number is essential to invoice, open a business account and bid for tenders. It is issued as part of CAC registration.
What minimum capital for a small company?
Capital is symbolic, often set low. This low threshold makes registration accessible to a sole founder.
What does formalization change concretely?
It opens access to public and private tenders reserved for formal companies, to bank credit, and to professional payments — doors closed to the informal sector.
Let's talk about your project. Once your company is registered, we build your website and digital tools to win contracts. 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.
