The Federal Government has opened access to 250,000 free business name registrations for eligible entrepreneurs across Nigeria as part of efforts to support the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
The initiative, approved by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is aimed at reducing the cost of formalising small businesses and encouraging more entrepreneurs to register their ventures.
Interested and eligible entrepreneurs have been advised to apply through the official SMEDAN portal to participate in the programme.
The registration is completely free, with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) expected to process the approved business name registrations without charging beneficiaries.
The government has also warned applicants to be cautious of fraudsters seeking to exploit the initiative.
Entrepreneurs have been advised not to pay anyone claiming to have the ability to fast-track or secure their registration, stressing that no payment is required under the programme.
Applicants are encouraged to use only the official SMEDAN portal and avoid making payments or sharing sensitive personal information with unauthorised individuals or agents.
The initiative is expected to make it easier for small business owners to formalise their operations and gain access to opportunities and support available to registered businesses.
