Which Is Better · 4 min read
'I Have My CAC, So My Brand Is Protected' - Why That's Dangerously Wrong
CAC registration only protects the company name from being re-registered. It does NOT stop competitors from using your brand. Trademark does.
This is the single most expensive misunderstanding we see at AMG. Founders build a brand for 2 years, then discover a competitor legally trademarked it.
What CAC actually protects
CAC stops another company from registering the exact same legal company name. That's it. It does NOT stop anyone from using your brand name on products, packaging, social media, websites, or even registering it as a trademark.
What a trademark protects
- Exclusive legal right to use your brand name, logo or slogan in your class
- Power to issue takedowns on Instagram, TikTok, Jumia, Amazon, Konga
- Required to sell on most marketplaces and to enter franchise/licensing deals
- Asset that increases your company valuation in a fundraise or acquisition
When to file
The day your brand starts gaining recognition - even before launch if budget allows. Filing in Nigeria starts from around ₦40,000 per class. International (USPTO, EUIPO, WIPO Madrid) is separate.
AMG runs a free clearance search before you file, so you don't pay for a class that's already taken. Ask on WhatsApp.