The Federal Government has commenced the registration of 250,000 free business names for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria as part of efforts to support small businesses and stimulate economic growth.
The initiative, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is aimed at helping eligible entrepreneurs formalise their businesses without incurring registration costs.
The government urged interested and eligible entrepreneurs to access the official SMEDAN registration portal at portal.smedan.gov.ng to register and participate in the programme.
The initiative is expected to provide small business owners with formal business registration and strengthen their access to opportunities available to registered enterprises.
The government also warned members of the public against fraudsters seeking to exploit the programme.
“The Corporate Affairs Commission will NOT request payment for this registration,” the management said in a public notice issued on Saturday.
It further cautioned entrepreneurs against paying individuals who claim they can fast-track or guarantee their registration.
“Beware of fraudsters! Do not pay anyone claiming to fast-track your registration,” the notice added.
The Federal Government said the initiative was part of broader efforts to support the growth and development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, which remain a key component of Nigeria’s economy.
The notice was signed by the Management on August 15, 2026.
