Quick answer
To check a business name, use CAC's public search, enter the business or company name carefully, compare spelling and registration details, and remember that a registry match does not prove the business is trustworthy or currently safe to pay.
This guide is written for Nigerians who need a practical next step. It gives the direct answer first, then shows what to verify, what to prepare, what mistakes to avoid and which related Explainer.NG pages can help.
What CAC public search can tell you
CAC public search can help you confirm whether a business name or company name appears in the corporate registry. It is useful before dealing with vendors, agents, schools, employers or service providers.
A name match is a starting point, not full due diligence. Fraudsters can misuse real company names or create lookalike names.
- Business name
- Company name
- Registration number where visible
- Status indicators where available
- Name spelling
- Entity type
How to use it carefully
Search with exact spelling and also try close variants if the name is commonly abbreviated. Compare the result with invoice, receipt, bank account name, website and social media details.
If someone gives a personal account for a company transaction, ask why and get written confirmation before paying.
When public search is not enough
For large transactions, leases, employment agencies, investment offers or contracts, ask for more evidence: official documents, references, office address, tax records, professional licences or legal review where needed.
CAC registration does not guarantee product quality, refund behaviour or financial safety.
Checklist
- Use CAC public search
- Check exact spelling
- Compare bank account name
- Check entity type
- Ask for more evidence for large payments
- Beware lookalike names
CAC public search is a first verification step before money changes hands
CAC public search can help you confirm whether a business name or company appears in Nigeria's corporate registry. Search the exact legal name, compare the registration number and entity type where shown, and ask the other party to explain any spelling difference. A search result confirms registry information; it does not guarantee that the person contacting you owns the business or that the business will deliver.
Before paying a supplier, landlord, school agent, investment promoter or service provider, compare the CAC result with the invoice, contract, bank account name, website, phone number and physical address. A real company name can be copied by a scammer. A business may also trade with a brand name that is different from its registered legal name, so ask for the relationship in writing.
For a high-value transaction, add due diligence: request a current status report, check licences for regulated work, verify directors or beneficial owners where relevant, inspect the contract and ask for references. Never treat CAC registration as proof of a refund promise, financial solvency or professional licence.
If you cannot find the name, check spelling and entity type before concluding that the business is fake. Ask the business for its registered name or RC/BN number. Do not upload your ID or pay an unofficial ‘unlock’ fee to somebody claiming that public search is blocked. Use the official CAC route and keep the search evidence.
Quick decision helper
How much due diligence does this payment need?
What to compare after the CAC search result appears
A useful check compares at least four items: the legal name, entity type, registration number and the account or person receiving payment. If the invoice says a limited company but the search shows a business name, ask for an explanation and corrected paperwork before paying. If the bank account belongs to an individual, document why the business is using it or pause the transaction.
For a name reservation, public search is only a preliminary availability check. Registration and post-registration status are separate questions. For a supplier or consultant, ask for the record that proves the current entity details and check any sector licence outside CAC. For an investment or large contract, get professional due diligence because a registry record cannot prove solvency, ownership of a product or honesty of a salesperson.
People also ask
Does CAC registration mean a business is genuine?
It confirms registry presence, but it does not guarantee trustworthiness or good conduct.
Can scammers use real company names?
Yes. Compare bank details, contacts and documents carefully.
Can I check a business before paying?
Yes. CAC public search is a useful first step.
What if I cannot find the name?
Check spelling and ask the business for its registered name or number.
Is business name the same as limited company?
No. They are different entity types with different implications.