Nigeria’s Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) plans to deploy an artificial intelligence agent to address a backlog of over 7,000 pending company registrations. CAC officials announced this AI solution during a briefing in Abuja On September 22, 2025.
This initiative aims to streamline processes for entrepreneurs nationwide, including those in vibrant hubs like Rivers State.
Under the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 2020, the CAC regulates business incorporations across Nigeria. Its online portal, launched in 2018, has seen a surge in applications, with over 2 million processed in 2024 alone.
This reflects Nigeria’s growing entrepreneurial spirit, driven by tech startups and small businesses, including those in Port Harcourt’s dynamic market.
However, the volume has strained resources, leaving 7,000 applications pending as of September 2025. Delays, sometimes lasting months, frustrate applicants and hinder economic growth. A Rivers-based entrepreneur noted, “Waiting stalls our plans and discourages investors.” Such bottlenecks threaten Nigeria’s business-friendly image.
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The tool will automate tasks like document checks and initial reviews, aiming to cut processing times by up to 50%. “This technology supports our staff, letting them focus on complex cases,” a CAC official said.
Set to launch in October 2025, the AI system draws inspiration from efficient registries like Singapore’s. Experts, including Dr. Amina Okoye, a business analyst, praise the move: “It could boost Nigeria’s global ease of doing business ranking, benefiting regions like Rivers.”
While data privacy and training needs pose challenges, the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s digital economy goals. With 2.5 million registrations projected for 2025, the AI agent promises faster market access for entrepreneurs, fostering growth across states.
It bears mentioning that this step could set a precedent for other agencies, enhancing Nigeria’s appeal as a hub for innovation and investment.
