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.

• What is SON?

  SON stands for ‘Standards Organization of Nigeria’

• 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.

• 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.

• Can I trademark my logo and name separately? Why is this a good idea?

  Yes you can. The advantage is that it gives you the opportunity to have more than one logo or the opportunity to change your logo easily as opposed to registering the name and the logo as one trademark.