For a long time, Nigeria has been an attractive, yet challenging, destination for foreign investors. The process of doing business was often slow and confusing. However, a major new law, the Business Facilitation Act (BFA) of 2023, is changing the landscape by making Nigeria a much easier place to invest and operate a company. So, two years after this law was passed, how has it actually helped? Let's break it down. What It Used to Be Like Before the BFA, starting or running a business in Nigeria could be incredibly frustrating. Government…
September 1st, 2025. The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has deferred the implementation of its revised service fees to October 1st, 2025. The postponement comes as the commission prioritises the full stabilisation of its new Company Registration Portal, which is expected to be completed by mid-September. According to a public notice circulated by the Nigerian Bar Association-Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL), the decision aims to ensure a "seamless, efficient transition for all stakeholders" using the online portal. The announcem…
The new Cybercrimes Act 2025 has officially been enacted by the National Assembly under the Senate President Godswill Akpabio. This means every provision in the Cybercrimes Act (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) is now fully binding and enforceable across Nigeria. If you’re an online user, content creator, or admin of any digital platform (WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram, etc.), you must know what this law says — because ignorance will not be an excuse. Key Offences Under the Cybercrimes Act 1. Unauthorised Access (Section 3): Accessing someone else…
Clementina E. Ukiri, Esq. The dream of owning property in Nigeria is a significant milestone. It represents stability, security, and a wise investment. However, this dream can quickly become a nightmare if you fall victim to the fraudulent schemes that unfortunately exist in the real estate market. The good news is that with the right knowledge, you can protect yourself. This guide will equip you with the tools to spot red flags, understand the non-negotiable role of a lawyer, and demystify the complex legal language in your sale agreement. Re…
The relationship between a landlord and a tenant is one of the most common legal arrangements in society. Yet, it's often fraught with misunderstandings that can lead to serious disputes. Whether you're a tenant trying to understand your rights or a landlord seeking to manage your property legally, knowledge is your greatest asset. This guide breaks down the most critical aspects of the landlord-tenant relationship in Nigeria, with a special focus on the influential Lagos State Tenancy Law of 2011¹, which serves as a model for many oth…
The issue of paternity is foundational to family law, affecting matters of inheritance, identity, and maintenance. Paternity fraud, where a mother knowingly misidentifies a man as the biological father of her child, creates profound legal and emotional turmoil. While the request for a Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) test can be a source of conflict, it should be viewed not as an accusation, but as a definitive tool for establishing truth, offering a faithful mother an opportunity to affirm her integrity. Legal Framework on Paternity in Nigeria In …
Entertainment Industry The Nigerian entertainment industry, a dynamic and globally recognised force, has long operated within a legal framework that often struggled to keep pace with its rapid evolution. With the enactment of the Copyright Act 2022, a significant yet subtle change has been introduced that has the potential to redefine the landscape of intellectual property in Nigeria. This pivotal shift is the replacement of the term "sufficient effort" with "some effort" as the standard for a work to be deemed original and…
Dear Esteemed Constituents, It is with great joy that I inform you that the Bill for the Establishment of the Federal Oil and Gas Hospital, Benikrukru in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, which I sponsored, has on Tuesday, 22nd July 2025, been passed for third reading by the Nigerian Senate. The hospital, when established, will offer comprehensive and specialised medical services to workers in the oil and gas industry and to residents of host communities who bear the brunt of oil spillages, environmental degradation, and o…
The Mid-Year Market Support Committee of the NBA Effurun Branch wishes to inform the public and its members of the Mid-Year Market Support Initiative. Date: 25th of July, 2025. Time: 12 noon. Venue: NBA Effurun Bar Centre, High Court Premises, GRA, Effurun. This is an initiative for the benefit of the public and its members, where up to a 50% discount is placed on all food items and perishables, all fresh and of good quality. This is an offer you should not miss out on. You will get fresh and quality food items without breaking the bank. …
Nigeria, a country with diverse cultures and a rapidly growing population, has a unique and often complex relationship with land. At the heart of this complexity lies the Land Use Act of 1978, a pivotal piece of legislation that dramatically reshaped land ownership and administration across the nation. For anyone looking to acquire land, develop property, or resolve land-related issues in Nigeria, a fundamental understanding of this Act is not just helpful—it's essential. Before 1978, land ownership in Nigeria was largely governed by custo…
The decision to end a marriage is never an easy one, often fraught with emotional complexities and difficult conversations. While divorce can be a challenging period, understanding the legal process in Nigeria can help alleviate some of the stress and ensure a smoother transition. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to file a divorce petition in Nigeria, offering clarity to spouses contemplating or navigating this significant legal journey. Important Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not a substitute …
A sombre mood has enveloped Nigeria following the announcement of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari at the age of 82. Tributes have begun pouring in from across the political spectrum, with former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai expressing profound sorrow and a deep sense of national loss. In a public message released today, Jonathan described Buhari as a "notable leader, patriot, and elder statesman who served our beloved nation as both a military Head of State and Pr…
Nigeria's real estate market is a vibrant and dynamic sector, offering immense opportunities for investment and homeownership. However, navigating the intricacies of property law in the country can be complex. For both buyers and sellers, understanding the legal framework, key processes, and potential pitfalls is crucial to ensuring a smooth and secure transaction. This article delves into the essential considerations for anyone looking to buy or sell property in Nigeria, helping you make informed decisions and safeguard your investment. F…
Nigeria, a nation of diverse cultures and a rapidly evolving legal landscape, operates a sophisticated judicial system designed to uphold justice, interpret laws, and resolve disputes. Understanding its structure, the various courts, and their respective jurisdictions is crucial for anyone interacting with the Nigerian legal framework, be it a citizen, a business, or a legal professional. A Hybrid System: Common Law and Customary Law The Nigerian judicial system is largely based on the English common law tradition, a legacy of its colonial pas…
In an increasingly globalised economy, cross-border transactions are the norm, and with them comes the inevitable potential for disputes. For businesses operating or investing in Nigeria, international arbitration has emerged as a preferred method for resolving commercial conflicts, offering a distinct alternative to often protracted and public court litigation. While Nigeria has made significant strides in positioning itself as an arbitration-friendly jurisdiction, navigating this landscape presents both promising opportunities and persistent…