How to Register a Tech Company in Nigeria: CAC Process Step by Step

Why This Matters

Registering your tech company with the Corporate Affairs Commission is the first legal step to building a legitimate business in Nigeria. A properly registered company protects your personal assets, enables you to open a corporate bank account, makes you eligible for investment, and gives you the legal standing to sign contracts. Yet many founders delay registration or do it incorrectly, causing problems later. This step-by-step guide walks you through the entire CAC registration process for tech companies in Nigeria in 2026.

Step 1: Reserve Your Company Name

The first step is to reserve your company name through the CAC online portal. Log in to the CAC registration portal (cac.gov.ng) and use the name reservation feature. You can submit up to three name choices in order of preference. The system checks availability and reserves the first available name. Name reservation typically takes 1-2 business days and costs N500. Choose a name that reflects your tech company's purpose and is easy to remember. Avoid names that are too generic or that infringe on existing trademarks.

For tech companies, consider including words like Technologies, Systems, Innovations, Solutions, or Digital in your name. This signals your industry to clients, partners, and investors.

Step 2: Prepare Your Incorporation Documents

Once your name is reserved, you need to prepare the following documents. Memorandum and Articles of Association: This document defines your company's objectives, share structure, and internal governance rules. You can use the standard CAC template or customize it. Director and shareholder details: Provide full names, addresses, and valid identification (international passport, driver's license, or national ID) for all directors and shareholders. A private company needs at least one director and one shareholder. They can be the same person.

Registered office address: You need a physical address in Nigeria for your company's registered office. This can be your home address, a coworking space, or a virtual office. You will need a utility bill or tenancy agreement as proof. CAC incorporation forms: Complete the prescribed forms on the CAC portal. The online system guides you through each form with clear instructions.

Step 3: Pay the Incorporation Fees

The filing fee for a private company limited by shares is approximately N15,000. Additional costs include stamp duty on share capital (0.75% of issued capital) and registration fees for the memorandum and articles of association. Total cost for a standard registration with N1M share capital is around N50,000-N70,000. Payments are made through the CAC online portal via bank transfer or card.

Choose your share capital carefully. Minimum is N100,000, but most tech startups register with N1M-N10M. Higher share capital signals credibility to investors and partners, but increases stamp duty costs. You can increase share capital later through a special resolution.

Step 4: Submit and Track Your Application

Submit all documents through the CAC portal and make payment. The CAC reviews the application and may request corrections. Common reasons for rejection include incomplete forms, mismatched names, invalid identification, or unclear address proof. Respond to correction requests promptly to avoid delays. Once approved, you receive your Certificate of Incorporation via email. The CAC also issues your company's registration number, which you will use for all official purposes.

The timeline for approval varies. Simple applications with complete documents are processed in 2-4 weeks. Expedited processing is available at additional cost if you need the certificate sooner. Track your application status through the CAC portal using your application reference number.

Step 5: Tax Registration and Compliance

After incorporation, register with the Federal Inland Revenue Service for income tax, VAT, and withholding tax. You also need to register with the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service for Pay-As-You-Earn tax if you have employees. Tax registration is free but requires your CAC certificate and director details.

You must file annual returns with the CAC every year and submit tax returns to FIRS every month or quarter depending on your turnover. Failure to file returns results in penalties and can lead to your company being struck off the register. Most tech companies use a tax consultant or accountant to manage ongoing compliance.

Once your company is registered, you are ready to open a corporate bank account, sign contracts, raise investment, and build your tech product. If you need a software development partner for that product, contact SucceedHQ Innovations.