Registering a Nigerian Company from United Kingdom (UK) (2025 Guide – Cost & Requirements)

As the United Kingdom strengthens trade ties with Africa, Nigeria has emerged as one of the most promising destinations for UK investors seeking to expand into emerging markets. With over 200 million consumers, vast natural resources, and a growing tech ecosystem, Nigeria offers tremendous opportunities for British entrepreneurs aiming to establish a local presence without having to relocate immediately.

Thanks to the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) AI-powered online registration system, it is now possible to incorporate a Nigerian Limited Liability Company (LLC) from anywhere in the UK, without visiting Nigeria or submitting physical paperwork. This guide explains every step, requirement, timeline, and cost involved in registering your Nigerian company and opening a corporate bank account remotely from the United Kingdom in 2025.

Why Nigeria Attracts UK Investors

• Market Size: Over 200 million people and the largest economy in Africa.

• Ease of Digital Incorporation: 100% online registration through the CAC portal.

• Strategic Location: Gateway to West African trade under ECOWAS.

• Legal System Compatibility: Nigeria’s corporate laws share similar roots with English common law.

• High Return Sectors: Technology, fintech, renewable energy, real estate, and agriculture.

For UK entrepreneurs looking for long-term growth, Nigeria represents both a strategic hub and a scalable base for African expansion.

Overview of the Incorporation Process

Company registration in Nigeria is regulated by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), 2020. The process has been fully digitised through the AI-driven CAC e-registration portal (https://icrp.cac.gov.ng), allowing UK investors to handle every step remotely.

Here is a simplified overview:

(All prices are based on current service rates and may vary depending on your provider.)

Requirements for Registering a Nigerian Company from the UK

Before beginning the registration, UK investors must prepare the following details and documents:

1. Two Proposed Company Names
   Ensure both are unique and relevant to your business.

2. Details of Directors, Shareholders, and Company Secretary

   • Full Names

   • Residential Addresses

   • Gender

   • Dates of Birth

   • Nationality

   • Email Addresses and Phone Numbers

3. Shareholding Structure
   Provide a clear breakdown of ownership percentages among shareholders.

4. Business Objects
   Describe your company’s intended operations in Nigeria.

5. Means of Identification
   Upload a copy of a valid UK passport, driver’s license, or national ID for all directors and shareholders.

6. Registered Office Address in Nigeria
   Every Nigerian company must maintain a local registered address. This can be arranged through a legal or consulting firm.

7. Scanned Signatures
   Each director and shareholder must sign on plain white paper and scan for upload.

Step-by-Step Incorporation Process

Step 1: Name Reservation

Login to the CAC AI portal and submit a proposed name. The system automatically checks availability, typically within Minutes.

Step 2: Fill Company Details Online

Once a name is approved, enter all director, shareholder, and company information directly into the CAC e-portal. No physical forms are required.

Step 3: Upload Documents

Attach identification, share structure, scanned signatures, and registered office details.

Step 4: Review and Submit

The CAC system validates your application through automated compliance checks before submission.

Step 5: Certificate Issuance

Upon approval, the CAC electronically issues your Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum & Articles of Association, and Status Report. These documents are now downloadable online only—physical collection or courier dispatch is no longer available.

Opening a Nigerian Corporate Bank Account from the UK

After incorporation, you can proceed to open a Nigerian corporate bank account. However, banking regulations in Nigeria require that at least one director hold valid Nigerian identity credentials such as BVN (Bank Verification Number) and NIN (National Identification Number).

Important Legal Context for UK Investors

While a foreigner can be the sole shareholder and director of a Nigerian company, such an arrangement faces practical limits until residency requirements are met. To operate effectively:

• You must obtain a CERPAC Card (Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card),

• which requires entering Nigeria through a Subject to Regularisation (STR) Visa,

• backed by an Expatriate Quota approval from the Federal Ministry of Interior.

Without these, a foreign director cannot obtain BVN or NIN, both of which are required to activate banking services and meet regulatory obligations.

Hence, it is common practice for UK investors to:

• Act as shareholders only, while

• Appointing trusted Nigerian directors temporarily for operational efficiency.

Once you secure your CERPAC Card, you may officially assume directorship roles.

Key Regulatory Agencies Involved

Estimated Timeline

Why Use a Local Consultant or Legal Partner

Navigating CAC registration, FIRS compliance, and bank requirements remotely can be technical. A local professional can:

• Ensure accurate documentation,

• Provide a compliant Nigerian address,

• Liaise directly with banks, and

• Fast-track certificate retrieval and SCUML/TIN processing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can a UK citizen own 100% of a Nigerian company?
Yes. Nigerian law allows full foreign ownership of a limited liability company.

2. Do I need to travel to Nigeria for registration?
No. The CAC’s digital platform allows you to register and receive certificates entirely online.

3. Can a foreign director open a Nigerian bank account remotely?
Only if they hold valid Nigerian identity credentials (BVN/NIN). Otherwise, appoint a local director.

4. How long does it take to complete registration and banking setup?
Roughly 35 working days, including TIN and SCUML processing.

5. Is there a minimum capital requirement?
For most business categories, ₦100 million share capital suffices to meet regulatory needs for foreign participation.

Common Misconceptions

• “I can use my UK passport to open a Nigerian bank account.”
  ❌ Not true. Nigerian banks require BVN/NIN, both tied to local residency.

• “CAC sends physical certificates by courier.”
  ❌ No. Certificates are issued digitally via the CAC online portal only.

• “Foreigners must have a Nigerian partner.”
  ❌ False. You can be the sole shareholder but must comply with identity and residency rules for bank operations.

Conclusion

Registering a Nigerian company from the United Kingdom has never been easier. The new CAC AI portal simplifies the process with no paperwork, no embassy visits, no middlemen required. With just your identification, company details, and about $2,650, your Nigerian business can be fully incorporated and ready for banking in five weeks or less.

For UK entrepreneurs eyeing Africa’s largest market, now is the perfect time to establish a compliant, profitable presence in Nigeria, digitally and efficiently.