In a major move to support small business growth across Nigeria, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has launched a nationwide initiative to offer free business name registration to 3,500 small enterprises spread across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The announcement was made on Monday, February 10, 2026, as part of activities commemorating the CAC’s 35th anniversary in Abuja.
The scheme aims to ease the financial burden of formalising micro and small businesses, particularly for entrepreneurs who struggle with start‑up costs and regulatory requirements. In a statement issued during the launch, Hussaini Magaji, the Registrar‑General of the Commission, said the gesture reflects the agency’s commitment to promoting entrepreneurship and inclusive economic participation. “In the spirit of the celebration, the CAC has announced free business name registration for 3,500 small businesses,” he said, highlighting the national scope of the programme.
According to Magaji, formal registration not only legitimises a business but also unlocks access to government services, finance opportunities and broader market participation—advantages many informal enterprises currently miss. The initiative is expected to encourage many young entrepreneurs and local traders to register their enterprises, a step that could enhance their credibility and growth prospects.
The free registration push is part of a broader effort by the CAC to modernise and streamline its services. Over the past year, the Commission has introduced digital improvements and expanded its online capabilities to make business registration faster and more accessible. Magaji has reiterated that technology and innovation will play a key role in reducing barriers for entrepreneurs nationwide.
Business owners and youth groups have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a valuable opportunity for small enterprises striving to formalise their operations without upfront costs. Many hope that the move will also help spur job creation and strengthen Nigeria’s economy by bringing more businesses into the formal sector.
