Frequently Asked

• Why must I file Annual Returns?

  It is a mandatory statutory requirement under the Companies and Allied Matters Act to file Annual Returns yearly. 

• Must my Company Secretary be a Lawyer?

  Although it’s ideal to have a lawyer as a company secretary, it is not compulsory for small private businesses.

• What is a testimonium clause in an agreement?

  This is the part of the agreement where the witness attests to have witnessed the execution of the agreement.

• Is there a penalty for late renewal of registration of products with NAFDAC?

  Yes, there is a late renewal fee, which is dependent on the category of the product.

• Is it legal to transfer the personal data you obtained legally to another person?

  No, its not legal. This is because the law prohibits anyone from transferring the data of a third party to another person without consent from the third party to do same even if the data was rightfully obtained in the first instance.

• What is the importance of registering a patent?

  The main reason to register a patent is to ensure that the inventor is able to exclusively commercially exploit an invention. The rights to a patent are vested in the “Statutory Inventor” i.e. the first person to file and register the patent.

• Is there a penalty for late renewal of registration of products with NAFDAC?

  Yes, there is a late renewal fee, which is dependent on the category of the product.

• Who can be directors in my company?

  Any two adults can be directors in a company.

• What is a trademark?

  A trademark can be any word, sign, symbol or graphic that you apply to your company, goods or services to distinguish them from those of your competitors; for example, a brand, product or company name, or logo. The trademark serves as a badge of origin for your business and its brands and products, and can consist of words, logos, slogans, colours and shapes, or a combination of all of these.