CAC warns public against three cooperatives using fake registration numbers and forged certificates.
The flagged groups face scrutiny as Nigeria’s registry tightens digital checks and boosts transparency.
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has identified and flagged three cooperative societies in Nigeria for using forged certificates of incorporation and registration numbers that do not exist in its official records.
In a public disclaimer dated July 14, 2025, and signed by the Commission’s management, the CAC warned Nigerians against engaging in any form of business with the listed organizations, stating that all the registration numbers they claim to hold are false.
“The General Public is hereby informed that the Certificates of Incorporation being paraded by the companies listed below were not issued by the Commission,” the notice stated. “They all have two different RC Numbers that the CAC did not issue.”
The flagged cooperative societies are:
- SPEF Cooperative Society Ltd – RC Numbers: 1265884 and 512862
- UPIL Staff Cooperative Society Ltd – RC Numbers: 1265837 and 553220
- PREM Staff Cooperative Society Ltd – RC Numbers: 1265844 and 545901
The Commission strongly advised the public to avoid any dealings with these entities, noting that anyone who transacts with them does so at their own risk.
This announcement comes as part of the CAC’s ongoing efforts to maintain transparency and trust in Nigeria’s business registration ecosystem. The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the integrity of company registrations and advised Nigerians to verify company information using its official registration portal.
As part of broader reforms, the CAC recently introduced an AI-powered registration platform known as the Intelligent Company Registration Portal (ICRP). The system aims to streamline business registration by automating key processes, including application submissions, document verification, and identity checks. The initiative also integrates the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) database to validate registrant identities in real time.
Despite early user concerns and allegations of AI failures, the CAC assured the public that the technology is robust and constantly improving through active use. The Commission also confirmed that some individuals have been attempting to bypass or manipulate the system, which it views as a deliberate attempt to compromise regulatory processes.
Additionally, the CAC announced that it would increase its service fees, effective August 15, 2025, citing economic pressures and rising operational costs. This adjustment, it said, is necessary to sustain quality service delivery and enhance digital infrastructure.
The Commission also reiterated that any internal staff member found to be violating registration procedures will face disciplinary action, as it works to eliminate bias and ensure equal treatment for all applicants.
