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.

• 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.

• 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 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 difference between licensing and assigning a patent?

  Licensing a patent means granting permission to another individual or organisation to make, use as well as sell the creation that has been protected by patent.

  A patent assignment on the other hand, is a finished exchange of patent rights starting with one individual then onto another person.

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

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

• 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.

• 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.