Learn how to apply for the 2026 SMEDAN free CAC business name registration for 250,000 Nigerian MSMEs. Step-by-step guide, portal login, requirements and FAQs.
The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has officially launched a ₦3 billion initiative to register 250,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) — completely free of charge.
This landmark partnership, anchored in President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, eliminates the financial and bureaucratic barriers that have kept millions of Nigerian businesses operating informally.
| Program Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Implementing Agencies | SMEDAN + Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) |
| Beneficiaries | 250,000 MSMEs nationwide |
| Registration Cost | ₦0 (100% fee waiver) |
| Value of Waiver | ₦3 billion in statutory fees |
| CAC Fee Waived | Business name registration (₦10,000–₦25,000) |
| Timeline | 2026 rollout (ongoing applications) |
Requirements for SMEDAN Free CAC Registration
To use the Free CAC registration portal login, you will normally need:
- Your full name (as on your valid ID)
- Proposed business name(s) – usually 2 options in case one is not available
- Business type (e.g. fashion, POS, farming, tech, food, etc.)
- Business address (state, LGA, town)
- Valid phone number
- Active email address (for portal login and CAC certificate delivery)
- Means of identification (one or more of):
- National ID (NIN slip/card)
- Voter’s card (PVC)
- Driver’s licence
- International passport
Some programmes may also ask for:
- Date of birth
- Gender
- State/LGA of origin
- Existing SMEDAN Number (if you already have one)
Always check the exact requirements on the SMEDAN free CAC registration form online.
How to Register for Free CAC Registration
Below is a general step-by-step guide for free CAC registration online under SMEDAN. Always follow the exact instructions on the official portal.
We really appreciate how government are supporting youth in our country.