Frequently Asked

• When are Annual Returns due for filing?

  A company’s first Annual Returns are due for filing after 18 months of its inception, subsequently it should be filed annually as the name implies. The filing dates could differ for each company depending on their financial year end but must be filed not later than 42 days after its Annual General Meeting.

  The Annual Returns for Business Names is due not later than the 30^th of June each year except in the year the business was registered.

• Do I need a Company Secretary?

  A limited liability company (LLC) must not have a company secretary.

• Why is mutual assent important in a contract?

  This is one of the key elements of a contract because is shows the meeting of the minds of both parties

• What are the benefits of Registering with SON?

  1. Product traceability in the Nigerian market
  2. Detection of counterfeit products
  3. Barriers to the circulation of substandard goods
  4. The official SON Product Registration Logo and number are displayed on registered products.

• What is personal data?

  This is any information that can be used to identify an identifiable human person such passport photograph.

• What is eligible for Patent registration?

  Patents are granted for the invention of products or processes. However, for it to be patentable, the invention

  • Must be new,
  • Must have an inventive step that is not obvious to someone with knowledge and experience in the subject,
  • Must be capable of being made or used in some kind of industry and not be, a scientific or mathematical discovery, theory or method, a literary, dramatic, musical or artistic work, a way of performing a mental act, playing a game or doing business, the presentation of information, or some computer programs, an animal or plant variety, a method of medical treatment or diagnosis,
  • And must not be against public policy or morality.

• Can I process/register multiple products at NAFDAC at the same time?

  Yes, you can process/register multiple products at the same time

• Can my kids be shareholders in my company?

  Yes your kids can hold shares in your company but there must be a minimum of two adult shareholders before kids can be included.

• 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.