NITDA Backs CAC’s AI Plans to Fight Fraud and Improve Business Registration in Nigeria

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NITDA has promised full support for CAC’s move to use artificial intelligence to improve business registration, boost security, and fight fraud across Nigeria.

Nigeria’s digital transformation drive received another boost as the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) confirmed its strong support for the Corporate Affairs Commission’s (CAC) plan to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) across its operations. The Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Abdullahi, made this known during the CAC’s 35th anniversary celebration held in Abuja. 

Speaking at the event, Abdullahi praised the Commission for its steady growth over the years and described its decision to embrace AI as a smart and forward-looking move. According to him, many government institutions start strong but later struggle to keep up with changes. He noted that CAC has avoided that trap by constantly improving its systems and services. He said the Commission has continued to grow stronger by adapting to new realities, especially in technology. 

Abdullahi explained that Nigeria is now in a digital age where artificial intelligence is no longer optional. He stressed that organizations that want to remain relevant must deliberately build AI into their daily operations. For CAC, this means faster services, better security, and easier processes for businesses across the country.

He revealed that right from the beginning of the current CAC leadership, digital transformation was made a top priority. This early focus, he said, laid a solid foundation for innovation and made it easier for the Commission to now move fully into AI-powered systems. One major area where AI will make a big difference is in the fight against fraud. 

Abdullahi warned that fraudsters are becoming more advanced and tech-savvy. To stay ahead, government agencies must also upgrade their tools. With AI, CAC staff will be better equipped to detect suspicious activities, prevent identity theft, and protect business records. He added that AI will also help simplify company registration and post-registration services. 

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For Nigerian entrepreneurs, especially small business owners and startups, this could mean less stress, fewer delays, and more transparent processes. AI-powered systems can reduce human error and cut down on unnecessary paperwork.

Cybersecurity was another key issue raised by the NITDA boss. He said AI can help monitor systems in real time, identify threats early, and block hacking attempts before serious damage is done. This is especially important as more government services move online.

Abdullahi assured CAC that NITDA will work closely with the Commission to make sure these AI solutions are properly deployed. He said the support will include technical guidance, policy backing, and capacity building for staff to ensure they understand and use the new tools effectively. He also emphasized that the use of AI must be done responsibly. 

According to him, NITDA will ensure that all AI systems used by CAC follow ethical standards and global best practices. This includes fairness, accountability, transparency, and protection of citizens’ data. The move aligns with Nigeria’s wider digital economy agenda, which aims to use technology to drive economic growth, improve public services, and create more opportunities for citizens.

As CAC marks 35 years of service, the planned AI-driven transformation signals a new chapter for the Commission. With NITDA’s backing, Nigerians can expect a more secure, efficient, and user-friendly corporate registry system in the near future. For business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs, this development could make doing business in Nigeria easier and safer than ever before.