Non Governmental Organisation &
Community Based Organisation
Registration
The registration process for Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) formalizes their legal existence and ensures compliance with statutory regulations. This process involves submitting necessary documentation, including the organization’s constitution, objectives, and operational details, to the appropriate government authority. Successful registration provides legal recognition, enhances credibility, and enables the organization to effectively pursue its mission, access funding opportunities, and engage in partnerships to serve their communities.
Overview
The registration of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) in Nigeria is a structured process that ensures compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks. The following steps typically guide the registration procedure:
1. Preparation of Documentation
The first step involves preparing essential documents, including the organization's constitution, memorandum of understanding (MOU), objectives, and details of the founding members. The constitution should outline the organization's mission, governance structure, membership requirements, and operational procedures.
2. Submission to the Regulatory Body
The application is submitted to the relevant regulatory body, such as the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) for NGOs or the Department of Cooperatives for CBOs, depending on the organization's focus and structure. These bodies ensure that the organization's activities align with national and local regulations.
3. Review of Application
Upon submission, the regulatory authority reviews the application and accompanying documents to ensure they meet legal requirements. This process may involve verifying the organization's objectives, governance structure, and the qualifications of its members.
4. Approval and Certificate Issuance
Once the application is approved, the organization is granted legal status, and a certificate of incorporation or registration is issued. This certification legally recognizes the organization and authorizes it to operate within the country.
5. Post-Registration Compliance
After registration, NGOs and CBOs are required to maintain ongoing compliance with relevant laws, including annual reporting, financial disclosures, and updates to their registration status as necessary. Regular recertification may be required to confirm continued compliance with operational standards.
By following these procedures, NGOs and CBOs can establish a solid legal foundation, enhancing their credibility, enabling access to grants and funding, and positioning them to effectively pursue their social or developmental missions.
NGOs and CBOs Registration Fees
| Type | Fee (₦) |
|---|---|
| New Registration | ₦10,000 |
| Recertification of Registered NGOs/CBOs | ₦5,000 |
| Replacement of Lost/Damaged Certificate | ₦5,000 |
| Legal Search for NGOs/CBOs | ₦3,000 |