The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a free CAC registration and certification program for 250,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.
Through the SMEDAN Free CAC Registration Program, Nigerian entrepreneurs can register their businesses and obtain official CAC certificates at no cost. This initiative aims to promote business formalization and grant MSMEs access to key support opportunities such as grants, capacity-building programs, technical assistance, and market linkages.
This post provides a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to apply for the free SMEDAN and CAC business registration in 2025.
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Program Summary
Host Country Nigeria
Category Training / Business Support
Eligible Applicants Nigerian Entrepreneurs (MSMEs)
Reward Free CAC Registration, Certification, Access to Business Grants
Deadline Not Specified
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Program Details
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has launched a nationwide initiative to register 250,000 MSMEs for free.
This free business registration drive is part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to:
Strengthen Nigeria’s MSME ecosystem
Promote business formalization
Remove barriers to entry and growth for small businesses
By covering the full cost of registration, the program connects beneficiaries directly to SMEDAN’s MSME database, helping entrepreneurs gain visibility and access to government-backed business support programs.
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Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Federal Government SMEDAN Free CAC Registration, applicants must:
Be a Nigerian citizen
Have a valid National Identification Number (NIN)
Own or operate a business with a verifiable address in Nigeria
> 🟢 Note:
MSMEs already registered with SMEDAN but without CAC certification are automatically eligible for this free registration drive.
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Benefits of the Free CAC Registration 2025
Participants will enjoy several benefits, including:
✅ Free CAC registration and official certification
✅ Savings of up to ₦11,000 (the usual cost of CAC business registration)
✅ Access to grants, capacity-building, and technical support programs
✅ Inclusion in SMEDAN’s national database for MSME opportunities
✅ Enhanced visibility and credibility for your business
Required Documents
To apply successfully, applicants should have the following documents ready:
Completed Application Form
Valid NIN Slip
Recent Passport Photograph
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Process)
Follow these steps to register your business for free:
1. Visit the SMEDAN registration portal:
🔗 https://portal.smedan.gov.ng
2. Sign up and complete your personal and business details.
3. When asked, “Do you have a CAC number?” – select “No.”
4. Submit your application form with the required documents.
5. Once your registration is complete, SMEDAN will contact you via email or SMS with further instructions on how to finalize your free CAC certification.
🟩 CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Important Information
Application is free of charge — do not pay anyone claiming to fast-track the process.
Ensure all details entered on the SMEDAN portal are accurate.
There is no official deadline yet, but early applications are advised.
Date: October 6, 2025
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