Business Registration Cost in Nigeria (2026 CAC Price Breakdown)

Starting a business in Nigeria is exciting, but one of the first questions entrepreneurs ask is: what is the business registration cost in Nigeria?

Registering your business with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) gives you legal recognition, credibility, and access to banking and funding opportunities.

In this guide, we break down the real CAC registration cost in Nigeria in 2026.

Why You Must Register Your Business in Nigeria

• Open a corporate bank account
• Access government and private contracts
• Build trust with customers
• Protect your business name legally
• Apply for loans and grants

Business Registration Cost in Nigeria (2026 Breakdown)

1. Business Name Registration

If you are a small business or sole proprietor, registering a business name is the simplest option.

Estimated Cost: ₦15,000 – ₦40,000

This includes CAC filing fees and possible professional service charges.

2. Limited Liability Company Registration

If you want to register a limited company, the company registration cost in Nigeria is higher.

Estimated Cost: ₦80,000 – ₦200,000+

The final amount depends on share capital and professional processing fees.

3. Incorporated Trustees (NGO Registration)

Estimated Cost: ₦150,000 – ₦400,000+

This is common for churches, NGOs, and associations.

CAC Official Fees vs Agent Fees

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has official filing fees.

However, many entrepreneurs use consultants or lawyers to avoid mistakes, which increases total business registration cost in Nigeria.

Documents Required to Register Business with CAC Nigeria

• Proposed business name
• Valid ID card
• Passport photograph
• Business address
• Details of directors (for limited companies)

How Long Does CAC Registration Take?

Business name registration may take 3 – 10 working days.

Limited company registration may take 1 – 3 weeks depending on documentation.

Hidden Costs Entrepreneurs Should Know

• Annual returns filing
• Tax registration
• Professional service charges
• Business bank account setup

Many first-time founders focus only on CAC registration cost in Nigeria without budgeting for compliance and operational expenses.

What After Business Registration?

Once your business is legally registered, the next step is building visibility and credibility.

Most serious businesses invest in a professional website. You can review our guide on website design cost in Nigeria to understand the investment required.

Final Thoughts on Business Registration Cost in Nigeria

Registering your business is not just a legal formality, it is a declaration that you are serious.

The business registration cost in Nigeria is small compared to the long-term opportunities it unlocks.

Start properly. Build legally. Grow confidently.