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.

• 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.

• When can I start renewal of the registration of my product(s) with NAFDAC?

  You can start renewal 6 months to the date of expiry.

• Can I use the data collected legally for one purpose for another purpose?

  No, you can’t use the data collected for one purpose for a different purpose.

• 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.

• When can I start renewal of the registration of my product(s) with NAFDAC?

  You can start renewal 6 months to the date of expiry.

• 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. 

• Why do I need a trademark?

  You need to register your trademark because if you don’t register it, someone else can! It helps identify you as the source and indicates a consistent level of quality of your products and services. Securing a registered trademark protects your brand, and provides you with tools to prevent someone else from using similar signs and riding off the back of your business.