FG Reopens Free CAC Business Registration Portal for 250,000 Nigerian MSMEs

The Federal Government has reopened access to its free business registration programme, giving eligible Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) another opportunity to register their businesses with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) at no cost.

The initiative, implemented in partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), aims to support 250,000 nano, micro and small businesses across the country by covering their business name registration fees.

The reopening follows earlier difficulties experienced by applicants trying to access the registration portal.

Who Is Eligible?

The programme is targeted at entrepreneurs and small business owners whose businesses are yet to be registered with the CAC.

Existing SMEDAN members without CAC registration may also qualify, subject to the programme’s eligibility requirements.

However, the initiative covers only business name registration and does not extend to the incorporation of limited liability companies.

How to Apply

Interested business owners can follow these steps:

Find Suppliers

1. Visit the official SMEDAN portal at https://portal.smedan.gov.ng.
2. Create an account using your personal information or log in if you already have one.
3. Complete your MSME profile with the required business details.
4. Select “No” when asked whether your business has an existing CAC registration number, if applicable.
5. Review your information and submit your application.

Applicants who previously registered on the portal are advised to continue their existing applications rather than create duplicate accounts.

What Applicants Should Know

The registration process is free for successful beneficiaries. Entrepreneurs are therefore advised to avoid individuals requesting payments to secure registration slots or accelerate approval.

Submitting an application does not automatically guarantee approval. Eligible applicants will be contacted by SMEDAN regarding subsequent steps.

A Step Towards Business Formalisation

The initiative forms part of efforts to encourage business formalisation, reduce registration costs and support the growth of small businesses in Nigeria.

Beyond registration, SMEDAN is expected to connect beneficiaries with business development support and other opportunities aimed at strengthening their operations.

Find Suppliers

For entrepreneurs operating informally, the programme presents an opportunity to establish a recognised business identity without bearing the usual registration fees.

Apply here: https://portal.smedan.gov.ng