CAC At 35: Free Business Registrations for 3,500 SMEs, AI & Google Pact Lead Reforms

By Linda Ike

Nigeria’s Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has kicked off its 35th anniversary in Abuja by announcing free business name registrations for 3,500 small businesses, alongside AI-driven reforms and a Google partnership to turbocharge efficiency.

Registrar-General of the Commission , Hussani Magaji, speaking at the event themed “Upholding Public Trust Through Excellent Service Delivery,” revealed the CSR initiatives, including scholarships for top corporate law students, donations of 120 mattresses to an IDP camp, orphanage support, and staff perks like a 25% bonus, special car and housing loans.

He touted CAC’s shift from manual processes to a 24/7 global digital provider, deploying AI to manage 10,000 daily registrations and 5,000 inquiries despite initial glitches, and a new website with an AI Lawyer and instant name reservations.

Magaji said the commission has sealed a collaboration with Google to bolster technology infrastructure.

Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Nura Abba Rimi lauded CAC’s 1990 legacy in corporate regulation and its digital evolution for public trust.

“From the days of manual registration to the present era of digital transformation, the Commission has continuously evolved to meet the dynamic needs of the economy.” Rimi said.

Chairman, House off Representatives Committee on Commerce, Ahmed Munir committed legislative backing.

He praised the commission for its simplified registrations that empower entrepreneurs into the formal economy.

“By simplifying the path of idea to the corporation you have empowered millions of entrepreneurs to move from the former sector into the structure economy.”

“Our committee remains committed to providing legislative support, necessarily to further enhance your digital infrastructure and transparency.” Munir stated.