The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has marked its 35th anniversary, celebrating over three decades of institutional reforms, digital transformation, and commitment to improving the ease of doing business in Nigeria.
Established in 1991, the Commission began operations from a single office in Area 11, Garki, Abuja, where all business registrations nationwide were processed manually. At the time, citizens were required to travel from across the country to access CAC services, with records maintained entirely on paper.
Thirty-five years later, CAC has evolved into one of Africa’s most dynamic and reform-driven corporate regulatory agencies, operating a fully digital, 24-hour, seven-day service platform with nationwide and global reach. The transformation from paper-based processes to seamless online service delivery reflects the Commission’s resolve to modernize corporate regulation and enhance public access.
Speaking at the anniversary celebration, the Registrar-General/Chief Executive Officer of CAC, Ishaq Hussaini Magaji acknowledged the vital role of stakeholders, partners, and customers whose trust and collaboration have sustained CAC’s reform journey over the years.
In line with global best practices, CAC has continued to deploy technology-driven solutions, including artificial intelligence, to improve turnaround time, efficiency, and service quality.
While the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 posed unprecedented operational challenges, Mr Magaji expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their patience and continued confidence during that period.
“Today, CAC is recognised as a global reference point in digital business registration and corporate data management, with the capacity to complete business registrations in as little as ten days. Business registration volumes have grown exponentially, with the Commission now processing close to 10,000 registration requests daily, compared to fewer than 100 in its early years. In addition, CAC’s case management system handles an average of 5,000 customer inquiries weekly through emails and call centres.
He emphasized that the adoption of artificial intelligence is no longer optional but essential to sustainably manage growing demand, enhance accuracy, reduce costs, and improve customer experience.
“As part of activities marking the anniversary, CAC signed a Letter of Collaboration with Mogu, a leading global technology company, aimed at strengthening the Commission’s technology framework and further enhancing service delivery. The partnership has already contributed to improved platform performance and expanded digital and internet-based services.
“CAC is also unveiling its newly redesigned website, www.cac.gov.ng, featuring innovative tools such as the AI Notifier, which enables users to obtain instant answers directly from CAC laws, rules, guidelines, and procedures, thereby improving transparency and access to information, he said.
Reaffirming its mandate, The CEO reiterated its commitment to upholding public trust, deepening reforms, and delivering world-class services that support enterprise growth and Nigeria’s economic development.
