The Federal Government has approved the free registration of 250,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
It marks a significant step toward formalising businesses, expanding financial inclusion and reinforcing Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape.
President Bola Tinubu unveiled the initiative during the 8th National MSME Awards 2026 at the State House in Abuja, stating that the programme reflects his administration’s dedication to empowering small businesses and fostering an environment that supports economic development.
Free CAC registration for selected businesses
As part of the initiative, 250,000 qualified nano, micro and small enterprises will have their business names registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission free of charge.
According to PM News, the Federal Government will cover every statutory registration fee, eliminating one of the major financial obstacles that have discouraged many entrepreneurs from formally registering their businesses.
The Presidency explained that the programme is intended to motivate more small business owners to transition into the formal economy, allowing them to benefit from banking services, government intervention programmes, investment opportunities and other advantages that are typically inaccessible to unregistered businesses.
More than registration
The programme extends beyond free business registration, as successful applicants will also benefit from technical training and business development support designed to help them establish stronger and more resilient enterprises.
Officials noted that the initiative aims not only to increase the number of formally registered businesses across Nigeria but also to improve their sustainability by providing entrepreneurs with the practical knowledge and skills required to expand and remain competitive.
According to a report by MSME Africa, the intervention is part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to stimulate job creation, improve productivity and create greater opportunities for small businesses nationwide.
How interested business owners can apply
The Presidency stated that entrepreneurs seeking to benefit from the programme must complete their registration through the official SMEDAN portal by providing the required information and supporting documentation
The initiative is being executed through a collaboration between the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), with both organisations expected to accelerate the registration process for qualified applicants.
Government officials described the waiver of registration fees as a major financial boost for small businesses, emphasising that lowering the cost of formal registration will encourage more entrepreneurs to legitimise their businesses, improve access to funding and position their enterprises for sustained growth.
The programme is expected to support thousands of entrepreneurs across the country while further strengthening Nigeria’s MSME sector, which is widely recognised as the backbone of the nation’s economy.
