Port Harcourt — The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has taken a significant leap forward in streamlining business registration processes with the pilot launch of its cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered portal.
The initiative was unveiled during the 2025 Stakeholders Forum held in Port Harcourt, signaling Nigeria’s commitment to fostering a more business-friendly environment.
In a statement, the Registrar-General of the CAC, Malam Hussaini Magaji, hailed the innovation as a “major milestone in Nigeria’s business facilitation drive.” He elaborated that the upgraded portal represents a complete overhaul of the existing Company Registration Portal (CRP), now equipped with advanced features designed to simplify and accelerate the registration process.
Faster, Smarter, and Seamless Registration
Magaji explained that the new system allows for instant approval of business name reservations, comparing its ease to “creating an email account.”“The AI platform can suggest available alternatives when a desired name is taken and approve them immediately,” he noted. This innovation aims to drastically reduce registration times, with a target of generating certificates within just 30 minutes—contingent on real-time validation of data from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
While acknowledging potential delays due to external data verification, Magaji assured users that a contingency plan has been put in place. “We’ve developed AI-powered photo ID matching to address occasional delays caused by external data confirmation,” he said.
Expanding Partnerships and Future Digital Features
Looking ahead, the Registrar-General revealed that the CAC is actively reviewing over 100 applications from private sector entities seeking to become Super Agents, including several from outside Nigeria. Among potential collaborators is the Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), which Magaji described as “a strategic partner in our digital ecosystem.”
Further technological enhancements are on the horizon, including the integration of Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and One-Time Password (OTP) verification for all transactions, aimed at preventing unauthorized access and ensuring record integrity. Additionally, a CAC Mobile App is set to be launched in the last quarter of 2025, enabling users to carry out transactions and monitor their registration status remotely.
Service Reforms to Sustain Quality
In line with its ongoing digital transformation, the CAC announced plans to review certain service fees starting August 1, 2025. The reforms are intended to sustain high-quality service delivery amidst the swift adoption of new technologies.
Stakeholders Speak
The event was attended by prominent stakeholders, including Cordelia Eke, Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Port Harcourt Branch, and Mr. Sebastian Essien, Chairman of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN). Representatives from the Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), the Rivers State Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and other key partners also participated.
During an interactive session, CAC’s technical team addressed customers’ concerns and provided real-time solutions to registration and compliance challenges, reinforcing the Commission’s commitment to service excellence.
In the words of Magaji, “This innovative portal is not just about technology; it’s about empowering Nigerian entrepreneurs and making it easier to start and grow businesses in Nigeria. Our goal is to foster a dynamic, efficient, and accessible business environment for all.”