CAC Defends Portal Delays, Vows Sanctions for Erring Officers and AI-Driven Transparency

CAC Defends Portal Delays, Vows Sanctions for Erring Officers and AI-Driven Transparency

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has responded to widespread complaints over delays and non-functional processes on its Companies Registration Portal (CRP). For about two weeks, many users have expressed frustration at being unable to complete pre-registration processes, including business name availability searches.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the CAC expressed concern over allegations that some officers are fast-tracking certain applications at the expense of others. The Commission reassured the public of its commitment to transparency and pledged to investigate these claims.

Sanctions for Violators

The CAC announced its intention to impose strict sanctions on officers found violating its established guidelines and procedures. Customers and the public were urged to provide incriminating evidence against any erring officers, irrespective of their rank.

“The Commission does not take these allegations lightly and is, therefore, investigating them with a view to taking decisive action against anyone found violating its established guidelines and standard operating procedures,” the statement read.

AI-Driven Registration Process

To address ongoing challenges, the Commission highlighted plans to deploy artificial intelligence (AI) to drive its registration processes and eliminate human interference. According to the CAC, this move aligns with global best practices and is expected to enhance efficiency and transparency.

“We wish to state that all applications are treated equally based on merit and a first-come, first-served basis. Some paid services are offered the same day upon request on the Companies Registration Portal (CRP),” the CAC noted.

The Commission further reiterated its commitment to providing prompt and efficient services, emphasizing that AI integration would revolutionize its operations.

Addressing Public Concerns

This update comes amid a surge in applications, as the CAC processes no fewer than 15,000 submissions daily, including weekends, for its fintech regularization program. The Commission also responded to claims in the media alleging inefficiencies in its name search process, describing them as “false and intended to discredit the organization.”

“In light of the set deadline for the regularization of fintechs, the Commission is handling no less than 15,000 applications per day, and its dedicated approving officers are working tirelessly to process applications based on their merits,” the statement emphasized.

Technology-Driven Solutions

The Commission revealed that eight months ago, it began exploring ways to use AI for real-time company registration, in collaboration with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI). Hussaini Ishaq Magaji, the CAC’s Registrar-General, highlighted the operational improvements made since his assumption of office in October 2023 and underscored the need for continued technology-driven solutions.

Magaji affirmed that NASENI’s high-powered computing (HPC) products would play a vital role in realizing the Commission’s goal of company registration within minutes.

Looking Ahead

As the CAC continues to navigate its challenges, the Commission has reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to delivering seamless, efficient, and transparent services. By leveraging AI and imposing strict sanctions on violators, the CAC aims to restore public confidence in its operations and uphold its mandate to support businesses across Nigeria.

For individuals and organizations facing challenges on the CRP, the CAC encourages patience and the submission of detailed complaints to facilitate swift resolution.