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. 

• What’s the difference between a business name and an LLC?

  • A business name is a sole proprietorship, usually owned and managed by one individual only. Legally, the sole proprietor and his business are one. It simply means an individual trading with an alias. The sole proprietor is personally liable for all business related obligations.

  • A limited liability company on the other hand is a separate business entity from the individuals that hold its shares and act as directors. Legally, it’s a separate business entity and a person on its own who can transact business, own property separate from its owners and can sue or be sued. 

• 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.

• Do I have to physically drop off my product sample at NAFDAC office?

  No, you can choose to have it sent to NAFDAC office

• What is classified as personal data?

  Name, photograph, personal health/bio information, account/financial information, phone number, Address, date of birth, place of birth, Email address, etc.

• 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.

• What’s the difference between a business name and an LLC?

  • A business name is a sole proprietorship, usually owned and managed by one individual only. Legally, the sole proprietor and his business are one. It simply means an individual trading with an alias. The sole proprietor is personally liable for all business related obligations.

  • A limited liability company on the other hand is a separate business entity from the individuals that hold its shares and act as directors. Legally, it’s a separate business entity and a person on its own who can transact business, own property separate from its owners and can sue or be sued. 

• Will my trademark registration in Nigeria protect me worldwide?

  No, all intellectual property (IP) rights which includes trademarks are territorial, which means you are protected in the countries in which you register them.