SMEDAN Launches Business Clinic to Explain Free Business Name Registration for 250,000 MSMEs

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) have launched a joint initiative to provide free business name registration for 250,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.

The programme was officially unveiled in Abuja through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between both agencies. It is aimed at small businesses that are listed in SMEDAN’s database but are yet to be registered with the CAC.

Why the Initiative Matters

A large percentage of small businesses in Nigeria operate informally. Many entrepreneurs avoid registration because of costs, bureaucracy, or lack of awareness. Operating informally often denies them access to loans, government support, training opportunities, and bigger markets.

By removing registration fees, the CAC–SMEDAN partnership seeks to encourage MSMEs to formalise their operations. Once registered, these businesses will have access to capacity-building programmes, grants, technical support, and market linkages.

The Registrar-General of CAC explained that this initiative is part of ongoing reforms to support entrepreneurship under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The commission is waiving about three billion naira in registration fees to enable the scheme.

SMEDAN’s Director-General added that business owners with limited digital skills will not be left behind, as state offices and business clinics will provide support during the registration process.

How to Apply

1. Business owners should visit the SMEDAN portal (portal.smedan.gov.ng) and complete the registration form.
2. Eligible MSMEs already on SMEDAN’s database but not registered with CAC will be offered free registration.
3. Beneficiaries will be guided step by step until they receive their CAC certificates.
4. Entrepreneurs who lack digital skills can visit SMEDAN state offices or attend outreach programmes for assistance.

Things to Note

• The offer covers only 250,000 MSMEs, so applications should be made quickly.
• Business owners should be cautious of fake offers or scams claiming to provide free CAC registration. Only the official SMEDAN portal should be used.
• Once registered, businesses are expected to comply with legal obligations such as tax filing and annual returns.

Looking Ahead

The initiative is expected to reduce the number of informal businesses in Nigeria and create more opportunities for entrepreneurs. By lowering the barriers to formalisation, CAC and SMEDAN are helping business owners strengthen their operations, access support programmes, and position themselves for long-term growth.