Company Formation Services in Nigeria: A Complete Guide for New Investors
Establishing a business in Nigeria is one of the smartest moves investors can make today. As Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria offers access to more than 200 million consumers, a rapidly developing manufacturing base, and expanding opportunities across sectors like FMCG, logistics, agriculture, construction, and retail.
However, navigating the regulatory landscape—especially for foreign companies—can feel complex without the right support. This is where company formation services in Nigeria become essential.
At Wigmore Trading, we work closely with investors, importers, and distributors who want to establish a legal presence in the country quickly, efficiently, and with full compliance.
Why Nigeria Is a Prime Destination for New Businesses
Nigeria’s business environment continues to expand, driven by several key strengths.
1. A Large and Growing Consumer Market
With a population exceeding 200 million and rising urbanisation, demand for consumer goods, packaged foods, household items, and industrial materials is steadily increasing.
2. Strategic Access to West Africa
Nigeria acts as a gateway to ECOWAS markets, making it an ideal location for regional distribution hubs.
3. Rising Foreign Investment
Sectors such as logistics, agribusiness, FMCG, tech, and wholesale distribution are witnessing renewed interest from global investors.
Despite these advantages, registering a business still requires a structured approach—especially for international companies unfamiliar with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) requirements.
Understanding Company Formation in Nigeria
Setting up a business legally involves several mandatory steps that ensure full compliance with Nigerian law.
1. Choosing the Right Business Structure
The most common entity for foreign and local investors is the Limited Liability Company (LLC). Other structures include:
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Business Name (sole proprietorship)
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Limited Partnership
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Incorporated Trustee (for NGOs)
For businesses planning import/export, wholesale trading, manufacturing, or large-scale distribution, an LLC is typically the most suitable option.
2. CAC Registration Requirements
To register an LLC in Nigeria, you must:
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Reserve a company name
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Provide full details of directors and shareholders
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Issue a registered office address
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Create a share capital structure (often ₦1 million minimum; higher for foreign-owned firms)
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Submit incorporation documents to the CAC
3. Additional Licences and Regulatory Requirements
Depending on your industry, additional approvals may be required, including:
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Tax Identification Number (TIN)
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NAFDAC registration (for food, beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals)
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SONCAP certification (for imported goods)
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Importer/Exporter codes
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Industry-specific permits
Understanding these requirements early helps avoid delays and financial penalties.
How Wigmore Trading Supports Company Formation in Nigeria
With more than two decades of experience in supporting international brands, wholesalers, and distributors, Wigmore Trading provides a seamless company formation service tailored to your business goals.
1. Advisory on the Best Company Structure
We assess your business plans—whether you aim to import FMCG goods, export agricultural products, manufacture locally, or distribute regionally—and recommend the most effective structure.
2. End-to-End CAC Registration
Our team manages all filings, documentation, and follow-ups with the CAC to ensure your business is incorporated quickly and without unnecessary issues.
3. Regulatory Compliance Guidance
Because Wigmore Trading operates across multiple industries such as FMCG, beverages, construction materials, agriculture, and logistics, we understand the regulatory landscape and help you achieve compliance.
This includes assistance with:
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NAFDAC and SON approvals
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Import/export documentation
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Tax compliance processes
4. Full Operational Support After Registration
What sets Wigmore Trading apart is that we support investors beyond the registration stage. We help with:
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Product sourcing
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Wholesale distribution
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Logistics and warehousing
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Export coordination
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Market entry strategy
With this approach, investors not only register a company—they launch with confidence.
Wigmore Trading can help. Get in touch with our team to learn more.
Benefits of Using Professional Company Formation Services
Partnering with experts like Wigmore Trading offers several advantages.
1. Faster Processing Times
Avoid delays caused by incomplete documentation or misunderstandings of regulatory requirements.
2. Full Compliance
Nigeria’s business regulations change often. We ensure your company remains fully compliant from incorporation to operational activities.
3. Reduced Risk for Foreign Investors
We help you understand market conditions, local procedures, and industry regulations.
4. A Seamless Start to Operations
Once registered, we can support your supply chain, sourcing, logistics, and distribution needs.
Is Company Formation in Nigeria Right for You?
If you are planning to enter Africa’s largest economy, expand distribution, develop manufacturing operations, or access a high-demand FMCG market, Nigeria is an excellent destination.
With the right support, setting up a company becomes simple and rewarding.
Wigmore Trading has helped countless businesses establish and scale operations in Nigeria—your business could be next.
Ready to Establish Your Business in Nigeria?
Whether you’re a wholesaler, distributor, manufacturer, or import–export specialist, Wigmore Trading is ready to assist with your company formation journey.
Contact Wigmore Trading today to streamline your sourcing and registration process.






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