A simple yet powerful guide on how to register an NGO in Nigeria

One of the timeless ways of giving back to society, spreading kindness, and creating a lasting impact that will be etched in the hearts of people is by starting a non-governmental organization, NGOs have been known for promoting human rights, supporting social justice, providing medical aid, promoting health education, offering vocational training, protecting natural resources, promoting sustainable practices, providing emergency response, supporting refugee and migrant communities, supporting community development and empowering marginalized groups so registering your NGO is a step to gaining credibility, funding and support. 

This simple guide would act as your companion in taking steps while dispelling common misconceptions and providing foreigners looking to establish one with information. 

The importance of registering an NGO in Nigeria

Many passionate individuals and groups set out to create change, but without legal recognition, their efforts often face limitations. Following Nigeria’s NGO registration and procedures ensures you gain validation, making it easier to attract funding, build public trust, and qualify for tax exemptions. 

In Nigeria, NGOs are categorized into various types, including charitable organizations that focus on providing aid and support to disadvantaged groups, advocacy groups that promote and advocate for specific causes or issues, developmental organizations that improve community infrastructure and services, environmental groups that focus on environmental conservation and sustainability, and human rights organizations that address issues related to human rights and social justice. Regardless of the category, legal registration is essential for long-term success.

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The step-by-step process for an NGO registration

Defining a non-governmental organization’s mission and vision is the first step to establishing one; a strong mission statement is a foundation for your organization’s direction and purpose. The following line of action is to form a board of trustees, and Nigerian law requires, at minimum, two trustees of repute with no criminal record. 

Once the board of trustees has been established, you can draft your organization’s constitution, which includes your objectives, the structure of the governance, the rules of membership, and operational guides. Choosing your organization’s name is of utmost importance, and it must be approved by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the Corporate Affairs Commission, established by the CAMA in 1990, is the commission charged with incorporating companies and ancillary services.

Officially, the registration procedure begins with an application submission to the Corporate Affairs Commission. This involves uploading all the necessary documents, including the organization’s constitution, details of the board of trustees, proof of address and identification. 

Upon approval, the Corporate Affairs Commission(CAC) officially recognize your NGO by issuing you a certificate of incorporation. An application must be submitted to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to gain tax exemption status, and for financial transactions, you’ll need a specific bank account in your NGO’s name, this is important.

NGO registration cost in Nigeria 

Cost is often a significant concern for individuals looking to register an NGO, but understanding the expenses helps eliminate uncertainty. Name reservation with the CAC costs approximately 10,000 NGN, while the filing fee for incorporation is 35,000 NGN. 

A newspaper publication announcing the NGO’s establishment costs around 10,000 NGN, and each trustee must obtain a notary stamp at 1,500 NGN per person. Additional expenses include professional fees for legal assistance, typically ranging from 100,000 NGN to 250,000 NGN; the total registration cost for an NGO with ten trustees falls between 170,000 NGN and 320,000 NGN.

Addressing common misconceptions about NGO registration

A major misconception about non-governmental organizations is that they don’t need registration, and ensuring the legal validation that would make operation easier and access funding is essential. Another misconception is the complications and high cost of the registration process. 

Of course, costs are involved, but the process is uncomplicated with proper guidance. Some people think that non-governmental organizations are only committed to charitable causes; still, their focus spans various areas, which include promoting health education, offering vocational training, protecting natural resources, promoting sustainable practices, providing emergency response, and supporting refugee and migrant communities, amongst other causes they are given to.

Can foreigners register an NGO in Nigeria?

Foreigners can register a non-governmental organization in Nigeria, provided they team up with a local partner. Outside of this, they must also provide documentation from their Nigerian representative, such as proof of residency, obtaining the necessary permission makes for smooth operation, and complying with Nigerian laws is essential.

Bringing to fruition your vision

A non-governmental organization’s registration process and requirements might not be a walk in the park, but it’s an achievable goal. This requires a structured planning procedure, legal documentation, and compliance with rules and regulations.

From your mission’s definition to obtaining an official recognition from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), every step taken plays a pivotal role in setting up a thriving organization. Understanding the cost of the procedures, dispelling misconceptions and complying with the Nigerian laws would ensure a smooth ride.

By following this simple yet powerful guide, you can create a non-governmental organization in Nigeria that operates legally and create a space that would positively impact the society