When a Dream Meets a Glitch: Fixing Failed CAC Name Searches in Nigeria
You’ve picked a name. It sounds powerful, unique, and full of promise.
But when you enter it on the CAC portal,… rejected. Again, and again.
This frustrating roadblock has stopped many entrepreneurs in Nigeria from moving forward. Whether you want to incorporate a local startup or register a foreign company in Nigeria, the journey often begins with one annoying problem: Failed CAC name searches.
In this guide, we’ll explain the most common reasons why your name keeps failing and give you practical, tested solutions to fix it immediately.
With tips from CAC insiders, expert consultants, and business registration veterans like All-In-One Nigeria, this article is your one-stop fix-it manual.
What Is a CAC Name Search?
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) requires you to reserve your business name before registration.
A name search ensures that:
- Your name isn’t already in use
- It doesn’t violate existing trademarks
- It’s compliant with CAC rules
Only available names can be reserved, and only reserved names can move forward to registration.
The Top Reasons Your CAC Name Search Keeps Failing
-
Your Name Is Already Taken
This is the most common issue. Nigeria has over 3 million registered businesses.
Examples that will fail:
- BetNaija Ventures
- Jumia Logistics
- GTBank Services
Fix: Add a unique word or descriptor.
Instead of Green Life, try Green Life AgroTech Solutions Ltd.
-
You Used a Restricted Word
Some words require special approval from the CAC or relevant authorities.
Examples of restricted words:
- National
- Government
- Chartered
- Group
- Institute
- Corporation
Fix: Either get proper clearance or choose an alternative.
-
It’s Too Generic or Vague
Names like Global Services, Best Ventures, or Universal Enterprises often fail.
CAC rejects names that don’t have a clear meaning or are too broad.
Fix: Add your niche, sector, or location.
E.g., Global Freight Ventures Nigeria Ltd.
-
You Didn’t Specify the Nature of Business
Names must reflect what you do.
Bad: Eagle Services Ltd
Good: Eagle Transport Services Ltd
Fix: Add context or industry to the name.
-
You Submitted Only One Option
The CAC portal allows two name options. Many people submit only one.
Fix: Always suggest two unique names. If one fails, the other might pass.
-
You Missed Spelling or Formatting Rules
Some failures happen due to:
- Use of special characters (!@#)
- Abbreviations without meaning
- Use of capital letters only
Fix: Spell your names properly, avoid slang, and write in standard business format.
-
You’re Not Logged in Properly
Some users try submitting searches on outdated browsers or from mobile phones with a poor signal.
Fix: Use Google Chrome on a desktop.
Visit https://pre.cac.gov.ng
How to Do a CAC Name Search, The Right Way
Follow these steps carefully to improve your success rate.
Step 1: Prepare 2 Name Options
Make them unique. Include your industry or niche. Avoid restricted words.
Step 2: Go to the CAC Portal
URL: https://pre.cac.gov.ng
Create a profile if you don’t have one.
Step 3: Submit a Name Availability Request
- Choose “Name Reservation”
- Fill in your options
- Pay the ₦500 fee via Remita
Step 4: Wait 24–48 Hours
You’ll receive an email with the approval or rejection status.
Expert Tips to Get Your Name Approved the First Time
Check Existing Names Beforehand: Use the CAC’s public search tool at search.cac.gov.ng to avoid duplication.
Use Keywords That Reflect Your Business: Words like “Tech,” “Logistics,” “Agro,” “Media,” or “Consult” add clarity.
Add a Local or Niche Identifier:
Try:
- Ariyo Digital Media Ltd
- Zuba Cosmetics Nigeria Ltd
Use Consultants When in Doubt: Trusted firms like All-In-One Nigeria know what works and what doesn’t.
Common Myths About CAC Name Failures
Myth 1: A Failed Name Means You Can’t Use It Again
Truth: You can resubmit with corrections or additions.
Myth 2: Paying More Improves Your Chances
Truth: The fee is fixed. Approval depends on compliance, not payment.
Myth 3: You Must Register Immediately After Name Search
Truth: Approved names are valid for 60 days. You can register later.
Special Note for Foreign Company Registrations
If you’re trying to incorporate a foreign company in Nigeria, name reservation becomes even more critical.
Requirements include:
- No duplication with local companies
- Use of full legal suffix (e.g., Ltd, Plc)
- Submission of documentation to validate foreign identity
Need help with this? Contact All-In-One Nigeria for guidance.
Real-Life Example – How One Startup Fixed Its Repeated Failures
Tolu, a digital marketer in Lagos, tried to register Nova Media Ltd.
It failed three times.
With help from a CAC consultant, she revised it to Nova Hive Digital Media Ltd.
It passed in 48 hours.
Lesson: Clarity + uniqueness wins.
FAQs: CAC Name Search Problems and Solutions
- Why does my CAC name search keep failing?
Common reasons include duplication, restricted words, and vague naming.
- Can I reserve a name without registering immediately?
Yes. You have 60 days after approval to proceed with registration.
- How do I know if my name is taken?
Use CAC’s public search tool: search.cac.gov.ng
- Can I register a foreign company with an agent?
Yes. Trusted firms like All-In-One Nigeria offer this service.
- How long does name reservation take?
Typically, 24–48 hours. Delays may occur if names need manual review.
Conclusion: Fix the Glitch, Start the Journey
Your business name is your digital fingerprint. It deserves clarity, uniqueness, and legal validation.
Don’t let simple CAC errors stop your dream.
Whether you’re building locally or trying to incorporate a foreign company in Nigeria, the first step is simple: get the name right.
When you fail, fix fast. When you’re unsure, ask for help. When you’re ready, go big.
Call to Action
Visit our website: www.allinonenigeria.com
Email: projects@allinonenigeria.com
Let All-In-One Nigeria walk with you, from name search to full registration, and beyond.
Your name holds value. Let’s make it official.
