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. 

• 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.

• Is it legal to transfer the personal data you obtained legally to another person?

  No, its not legal. This is because the law prohibits anyone from transferring the data of a third party to another person without consent from the third party to do same even if the data was rightfully obtained in the first instance.

• Do I need permission to copy or use any copyright material in Nigeria?

  You do not require permission under the Nigeria Law to use or copy a copyright material when it is for research purpose, educational, non-commercial purpose, reviews and criticism etc

  However, when the copies are large, you must seek permission from the copyright owner.

• 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.

• Who can be directors in my company?

  Any two adults can be directors in a company.

• 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.