How to Register a Business Name in Nigeria (2026 Step-by-Step Guide)
8 min read · Updated 2 September 2026
A complete 2026 guide to registering a business name with the CAC in Nigeria: requirements, documents, costs, timelines and common mistakes to avoid.
What is a business name?
A business name is the simplest legal structure in Nigeria, regulated under Part B of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020. It lets a sole proprietor or partners trade under a name other than their personal names.
Unlike a limited company, a business name is not a separate legal entity — the owners are personally responsible for the business's debts.
Requirements and documents
Before you start, gather the following:
- Two proposed business names
- Valid means of ID (NIN slip, international passport, driver's licence or voter's card)
- National Identification Number (NIN)
- Passport photograph and signature
- Residential and business address
- Nature of business description
Step-by-step registration process
The process in 2026 is fully online:
- Check name availability and avoid restricted words like Federal, National, Bank or Group.
- Reserve your preferred name (valid for 60 days).
- Complete the pre-registration form with proprietor details.
- Upload ID, signature and passport photograph.
- Pay the filing fees and submit.
- Respond to any queries, then download your certificate and status report.
How much does it cost?
Official CAC fees are only part of the cost. When you factor in accredited agent fees, name reservation and time, most entrepreneurs pay between ₦25,000 and ₦45,000. Our Standard package is ₦25,000 and our 24hr Express package is ₦45,000 with a free TIN.
Common mistakes to avoid
Most rejections come from avoidable errors:
- Using restricted or sensitive words without approval
- Choosing a name too similar to an existing entity
- Mismatched details between your ID and NIN
- Vague nature-of-business descriptions