The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a landmark initiative to provide free Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) business name registration for 250,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.
The programme, officially unveiled through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at empowering entrepreneurs and easing the cost of doing business.
Speaking at the launch, CAC Registrar-General/CEO, Hussaini Ishaq Magaji, SAN, confirmed that all statutory fees would be waived, allowing qualified MSMEs to register their businesses without financial barriers. He assured participants that the process would be seamless and that certificates would be issued promptly once applications are verified.
SMEDAN Director-General, Charles Odii, described the project as a milestone for small businesses, stressing that formal registration opens the door to access loans, grants, and wider market opportunities. He noted that the collaboration with CAC ensures beneficiaries will also receive a unique identification number for improved accountability and visibility.
“This initiative shows the government’s clear commitment to breaking down barriers for entrepreneurs. By removing the cost of registration, we are enabling more Nigerians to step into the formal economy, scale their businesses, and create jobs,” Odii said.
Who Can Apply?
The programme targets micro, small, and medium enterprises nationwide, with priority given to businesses currently operating informally. Registration will be carried out in phases until the 250,000 slots are fully taken.
Direct Link to Apply
Interested business owners should visit the official SMEDAN portal to begin the process:
👉 Direct Link to Apply: https://portal.smedan.gov.ng
Applicants will need to sign up on the portal, provide basic details of their business, and complete the free registration steps. SMEDAN and CAC have assured that the process will be transparent, quick, and fully digital.