Starting a new business can be exciting and daunting at the same time. The feeling of what can be achieved with your skills/service/ product versus the process of getting the business registration right; can be conflicting.

To support you on this journey, we have put together things you should bear in mind when starting a business.

1) Register your business: Most government agencies, private companies and international organisation will only want to do business with registered Nigerian companies; hence it is crucial you register your business legally.

2) Choose the right name: Not only should you pick a good name that reflects your brand identity, but you also need to ensure it is properly registered and protected for the long term. We advise that you resist the urge to form your business name from your name as it is tougher to present a professional image and build brand awareness. Please note that there is nothing wrong if you do decide to use your name.

3) Employ the service of an accredited CAC consultant: Your consultant will liaise with CAC and guide you on the filling of the necessary forms. Please note that you cannot search for name availability and reservation if you don’t have access to the CAC registrations portal.

We recommend you have at least two different names for the intending business while checking for their availability. The following categories of names are not allowed in Nigeria:

· Names similar to existing or reserved names
· Names that are deceptive, offensive and misleading,
· Names that are contrary to public policy/good,
· Names similar to already registered trademarks.

4) Get your documents together: To complete your business registration process, you need to provide the following documents:
· Business plan
· Photocopy of an identity card.
· Two passport photographs.
· Photocopy of certificate of incorporation, board resolutions and up-dated annual CAC returns (in cases where incorporated bodies are involved in such registrations).
· Proficiency certificates (in cases where specialised knowledge are required)
· The required fees.

For more support on how to get your business registration completed, contact Public Announcement Nigeria
admin@changeofnamenigeria.com
IG: @changeofnamepublications
FB: @changeofnamenigeria
WhatsApp or Call +2349072143162.