Setting up a limited liability company (LLC) in Nigeria is no longer the slow and frustrating experience it once was. Thanks to improvements by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), you can now complete your entire company registration online within 72 hours or less, if you follow the correct process.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to register a limited liability company in Nigeria within 3 days, the documents required, fees, and tips to avoid delays.
What is a Limited Liability Company in Nigeria?
A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a legal business entity that separates the business from the owners (also known as shareholders). This means:
- The company can own assets, sue or be sued in its name
- The liability of each owner is limited to their investment in the company
- It is the most preferred structure for businesses that want to scale, work with corporate clients, or raise funding
There are two major types of LLCs in Nigeria:
- Private Limited Company (Ltd): The most common structure for startups and SMEs
- Public Limited Company (PLC): For companies that want to list on the stock exchange (requires higher capital)
This guide focuses on Private Limited Companies, registered with the CAC.
Why Register a Company Instead of Running as a Business Name?
- Credibility: Establishing your business as a limited liability company (LLC) will significantly enhance your credibility in the eyes of potential clients and investors, presenting a more professional and trustworthy image for your organization.
- Separate Legal Identity: This crucial aspect shields your personal assets, such as your home, savings, and other personal property, from potential business debts, lawsuits, or other financial obligations that might arise from the company’s operations, providing a significant layer of financial protection for you and your family.
- Contracts & Compliance: Establishing your business as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) significantly enhances your ability to secure both government contracts and lucrative corporate partnerships, opening doors to new business opportunities and fostering long-term, sustainable growth for your organization.
- Funding Eligibility: Investors generally favor businesses that are formally registered as limited liability companies (LLCs) because it indicates a level of commitment and professionalism. Registered companies often appear more credible and trustworthy to potential investors, making them more likely to seek investment opportunities. Furthermore, the legal structure of an LLC offers a layer of protection for investors, as the company’s liabilities are separate from the personal assets of the owners. This separation of liability is attractive to investors, as it reduces the risk associated with their investment.
- Tax Registration: Establishing your business as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) significantly streamlines the process of obtaining a Tax Identification Number (TIN) and effectively managing your company’s tax liabilities. This simplified approach not only eases the complexities inherent in tax compliance but also provides business owners with greater control and clarity when addressing the financial responsibilities associated with operating their ventures.
Step-by-Step Process to Register a Limited Liability Company in 3 Days
DAY 1: Name Reservation and Account Setup
Step 1: Choose a Unique Company Name
Pick two possible business names that are:
- Not similar to existing companies
- Not offensive or misleading
- Reflect your brand or sector
Examples:
NaijaCreative Tech Ltd
EzyLogistics Solutions Ltd
Step 2: Conduct Name Availability Search on CAC Portal
Go to https://pre.cac.gov.ng
- Click on Public Search
- Type in your preferred name to see if it’s already taken
If it’s available, move to the reservation.
Step 3: Reserve Your Business Name
Still on pre.cac.gov.ng:
- Create a CAC account using your email and phone number
- Fill the Name Reservation form (CAC-BNo1)
- Pay the name reservation fee (₦500 as of 2025)
- Upload a valid ID (e.g., NIN, International Passport, Driver’s License, Voter’s Card)
Turnaround Time:
Name approval usually takes 2–6 hours if submitted during working hours.
DAY 2: Company Registration and Document Upload
Step 4: Fill the CAC Registration Form
Once your name is approved:
- Log in to your CAC dashboard
- Select “Register a Company”
- Fill the Company Registration Form (CAC1.1) with:
- Company name
- Nature of business (choose appropriate classification from CAC’s drop-down list)
- Company type: Private Limited by Shares
- Business address
- Share capital & shareholding structure (e.g., ₦1,000,000 shared 50% each between 2 directors)
Step 5: Add Directors and Shareholders
- You need at least one director, but two are recommended
- Enter their:
- Full names
- Residential address
- Date of birth
- Occupation
- Nationality
- Valid ID document
Note: You don’t need a physical office address or utility bill at this stage.
Step 6: Upload Required Documents
You’ll need clear scans or digital versions of the following:
Compulsory Documents:
- Valid ID of each director/shareholder (NIN, passport, voter’s card, etc.)
- Signature page (signed digitally or physically)
- CAC-generated documents:
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (MEMART)
- Form CAC 1.1
Step 7: Pay the Registration Fee
As of 2025, the CAC fees are:
| Company Share Capital | CAC Fee (₦) |
|---|---|
| ₦1,000,000 or less | ₦30,000 |
| Above ₦1,000,000 | Based on scaled fees |
Other costs:
- Stamp duty (processed online)
- Professional fees (if you are using a CAC-accredited agent/lawyer)
You can pay via:
- Online card payment
- Remita
- Bank deposit
Once payment is successful, your application will be queued for processing.
DAY 3: Certificate Approval & Download
Step 8: CAC Review and Approval
- CAC officers will verify your documents and details
- If everything is in order, they’ll approve your registration within 24 hours
- You’ll receive a Company Registration Certificate, Status Report, and MEMART
All are downloadable directly from your CAC dashboard.
Step 9: Post-Incorporation Steps
After getting your certificate, here are the next steps:
a. Apply for a Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Visit https://tinhub.firs.gov.ng or any FIRS office
- Required for opening a bank account and paying company tax
b. Open a Corporate Bank Account
- Choose any Nigerian bank
- Provide:
- CAC Certificate
- MEMART
- Valid ID of directors
- Passport photos
- Board resolution (the bank may generate for you)
- TIN
c. Register for VAT and PAYE (If Hiring)
- Required if your company will charge VAT or employ staff
- Done through the FIRS and the State IRS
d. Protect Your Brand
- Consider registering a Trademark with the Nigerian Trademarks Office
Common Mistakes That Delay CAC Approval
- Uploading blurry or mismatched ID documents
- Using a company name similar to existing entities
- Not signing the forms correctly
- Entering inconsistent details (e.g., names not matching ID)
- Not responding quickly to CAC queries
Benefits of Registering a Limited Liability Company in Nigeria
- Builds trust with clients
- Easier access to business loans and grants
- Enables you to bid for government and private sector contracts
- Helps you build a proper business structure
- Gives you the legal right to sue or be sued
Conclusion
Registering a limited liability company in Nigeria has become easier than ever. If you plan carefully, submit clear documents, and avoid common mistakes, you can have your CAC certificate in just 3 days, without paying heavy agent fees or spending weeks in queues.
Use this guide as your personal roadmap to launch your business legally and professionally in 2025 and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Register a Company in Nigeria Without a Lawyer?
Yes. You can complete the registration yourself online. However, if you’re unsure, it’s okay to hire a CAC-accredited agent or lawyer.
2. What’s the Minimum Share Capital for CAC Registration?
₦100,000 is the legal minimum, but most banks require ₦1,000,000 for corporate account opening. So, it’s better to start with ₦1m capital.
3. How Long Does It Take to Register a Company?
If you follow this guide and your documents are in order, it’s possible to complete everything within 3 working days.
4. Can I Use a P.O. Box or Virtual Office as a Business Address?
Yes. You can use any valid Nigerian address, including virtual office addresses, provided it’s legal and traceable.