CAC Registration · 5 min read
Why CAC Keeps Rejecting Your Business Name (And How To Fix It Fast)
Most CAC name rejections come from 5 avoidable mistakes. Here's the checklist we use at AMG to get names approved on the first try.
You paid for a name reservation. CAC rejected it. Now you're frustrated and out of pocket. Here's why it happens and how to stop it.
The top 5 rejection reasons
- Name is too similar to an existing registered company
- Restricted words used without approval (e.g. 'Federal', 'National', 'Bank', 'Group', 'Holdings', 'Chamber')
- Descriptive words only (e.g. 'Best Tailoring Nigeria') with no distinctive element
- Wrong suffix for the entity type (e.g. 'Ltd' attached to a Business Name)
- Offensive, misleading, or trademark-conflicting words
How to pass on the first try
- Pick 2 distinctive words + 1 descriptive word (e.g. 'Kara Tide Logistics')
- Submit 2 name options per reservation - CAC checks them in order
- Avoid trending buzzwords others are filing the same week
- Run a free pre-check with AMG before paying the ₦1,000+ reservation fee
When in doubt, an AMG agent can run a quick clearance and recommend safer alternatives. Fees and rules can shift through 2026 - confirm with us before paying.