Don’t fall victim to business scams—verifying whether a company is legitimately registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is a vital first step before entering into any transaction in Nigeria. Fraudsters often pose as legitimate businesses, using fake names, false documentation, or even cloned websites to deceive unsuspecting individuals and organizations.
Fortunately, checking a business’s registration status with the CAC is both simple and free.
Here’s how to verify if a business or company is CAC-registered:
- Use the CAC Public Search Portal
Visit the CAC’s official website at https://search.cac.gov.ng.
Enter the business or company name into the search bar—no need to add “Ltd” or “Nig.” The portal will display details such as the RC (Registration) number, company status (active/inactive), and the type of entity (business name, limited company, etc.). - Check the Registration Number (RC or BN)
If a company provides you with its RC (for limited liability companies) or BN (for business names), enter that directly into the search bar. A genuine registration number should bring up exact details matching the company name and status. - Match Details with Other Official Channels
Cross-check the contact information, business address, and owners (if available) with what’s listed on their website or documents. Inconsistencies can be a red flag. - Ask for CAC Documentation
Any legitimate company will willingly provide copies of its CAC Certificate of Incorporation and status report. Be cautious if they refuse, delay, or provide low-quality or mismatched documents. - Consult a Legal or Tax Professional
If you’re still unsure, it’s wise to engage a lawyer, tax consultant, or corporate service provider to conduct due diligence on your behalf—especially for high-value deals or partnerships.
As a tax consulting firm, we regularly assist clients in verifying business legitimacy, avoiding fraud, and ensuring that their partners are compliant with Nigerian laws. Protect yourself by taking these simple verification steps before doing business with any entity.
Need help confirming a company’s CAC registration status or interpreting the results? Get in touch with our team today—we’re here to help you make informed, secure business decisions.
For professional advice on Accountancy, Transfer Pricing, Tax, Assurance, Outsourcing, online accounting support, Company Registration, and CAC matters, please contact Sunmola David & CO (Chartered Accountants & Tax Practitioners) at Lagos, Ogun state Nigeria offices, www.sunmoladavid.com. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +2348038460036.
