The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a free registration scheme for 250,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs),
The program was officially flagged off with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN).
Speaking at the ceremony, Registrar-General and CEO of CAC, Hussaini Ishaq Magaji, SAN, announced that the commission will waive all statutory fees to ensure business owners register without any financial burden.
“The CAC is committed to a seamless registration process that enables beneficiaries to receive their certificates without delay,” Magaji said. He added that SMEDAN will mobilise, prepare, and profile eligible businesses while also providing them with unique identification numbers.
Magaji noted that both agencies will work together to raise awareness, monitor progress, and share data responsibly to guarantee accountability and measurable impact.
On his part, Charles Odii, Director-General and CEO of SMEDAN, described the project as a landmark achievement under President Tinubu’s administration.
“This initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to empowering small businesses that play a vital role in Nigeria’s GDP growth,” Odii said. He also highlighted other MSME empowerment schemes already rolled out under the Renewed Hope Initiative.
The highlight of the event was the official signing of the MOU by both agencies to formalize the partnership and ensure smooth implementation of the programme.
Interested business owners can begin the process by registering with SMEDAN through the official portal at portal.smedan.gov.ng.
