In short
- CAC's public search is free, needs no account and is at search.cac.gov.ng.
- Search by name or by RC or BN number.
- The result shows the name, registration number, entity type, registration date and status.
- If your own entity is not shown as active, unfiled annual returns are a common cause.
On this page
How to search
- Open search.cac.gov.ng, CAC's free public search.
- Type the company or business name, or its RC or BN number.
- Open the matching result and check the details.
What the result tells you
- Name and registration number: check they match the documents you were given.
- Type of entity: company, business name or incorporated trustees.
- Registration date: how long the entity has existed.
- Status: whether it is in good standing on the register.
Checking someone you're about to do business with
A quick search confirms the business exists and is in good standing. For larger contracts, a fuller search of the company's filed documents, such as its directors and shareholding, is worth commissioning.
If your own company shows as inactive
A common reason is unfiled annual returns. Investors, lenders and large clients often run these checks, so it's worth fixing before it costs you. Our guide to late annual returns explains how to catch up, or send us your RC number and we'll check it for you.
Want us to check for you?
Send your company name or RC number on WhatsApp for a free check. We'll confirm your status and what, if anything, is outstanding.
Sources
The law and published guidance this guide relies on.
By Afrivest Governance & Advisory, last reviewed 22 October 2026. This guide is general information about Nigerian law as at that date, not legal advice for your situation. Fees, forms and portal steps change, so confirm them with CAC when you file, or ask us.