FG Opens Free CAC Registration for 250,000 MSMEs; Here’s How to Apply
The Federal Government has officially commenced applications for the free registration of 250,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) under a joint formalisation programme by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
Global Mirror News reports that the initiative, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is aimed at removing the financial burden of business registration for eligible nano, micro and small businesses, encouraging more entrepreneurs to operate within Nigeria’s formal economy.
Under the programme, successful applicants will receive free Business Name registration through the Corporate Affairs Commission, with the Federal Government paying all statutory registration fees.
The Presidency unveiled the initiative during the 8th National MSME Awards held at the State House, Abuja, on June 27, 2026, describing it as part of the administration’s efforts to strengthen small businesses and expand financial inclusion.
Beyond free CAC registration, beneficiaries will also receive technical training, business development support, and access to opportunities designed to improve business growth, sustainability and competitiveness.
How to Apply
According to the guidelines, interested business owners should:
Visit the SMEDAN registration portal at portal.smedan.gov.ng.
Create an account using their name, email address, phone number and a password.
Complete the MSME registration form with accurate business information.
Select “No” when asked whether the business already has a CAC registration number.
Review all submitted information before submitting the application.
Await confirmation from SMEDAN if the application is successful.
Global Mirror News gathered that businesses already registered on the SMEDAN database but without CAC registration may automatically qualify for the programme.
Successful applicants will subsequently be contacted with further instructions for completing their free CAC Business Name registration.
The initiative follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between SMEDAN and the Corporate Affairs Commission to formalise 250,000 nano, micro and small enterprises across Nigeria.
According to the Presidency, the programme is expected to eliminate registration costs that have discouraged many entrepreneurs from formalising their businesses, while improving their access to banking services, government interventions, financing opportunities and regulatory support.
The Federal Government believes the initiative will help integrate more small businesses into Nigeria’s formal economic system, promote entrepreneurship, create jobs and boost national economic growth.
