Starting a business in Nigeria is more than just a great idea and a CAC registration. To build a legally secure, scalable, and investment-ready startup, you need the right legal documents from day one.
Matamah has helped dozens of startups and SMEs structure their businesses for growth, secure partnerships, accept global payments, and expand seamlessly. With our 15+ years of business experience and a finger on Nigeria’s and global fast-changing regulatory landscape, we’re here to help you start strong.
Here are the 10 essential legal documents every Nigerian startup must have:
1. Founders’ Agreement (or Shareholders’ Agreement)
Think of this as a “startup prenup.” It defines:
- Ownership structure
- Roles and responsibilities
- Equity vesting terms
- What happens if a founder exits
Why it matters: It prevents disputes and ensures long-term stability.
2. Certificate of Incorporation (CAC Registration)
This is your legal proof of business identity from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) Nigeria.
Why it matters: You need it to open a corporate bank account, apply for loans, raise capital, and sign contracts.
3. Articles of Association
Defines your company’s governance:
- Board structure
- Shareholder voting rights
- Internal operations
Why it matters: It’s part of your CAC registration documents and required for formal partnerships and investments.
4. Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA)
This protects your:
- Business secrets
- Customer data
- Product ideas
Why it matters: Whether you’re discussing partnerships or hiring freelancers, NDAs keep your intellectual property safe.
5. Employment Contracts
Include:
- Job roles
- Salaries and benefits
- Confidentiality
- Non-compete clauses
Why it matters: Protects both you and your staff and ensures compliance with Nigerian Labour Law.
6. IP Assignment Agreement
For startups building tech, branding, or content, this document ensures all creative work is owned by the company — not the employee or contractor.
Why it matters: It prevents legal battles over product ownership in the future.
7. Privacy Policy
Legally required if you:
- Collect user data online
- Use emails, cookies, or phone numbers
Why it matters: NDPR (Nigeria Data Protection Regulation) compliance protects you from heavy fines and builds trust with your users.
8. Terms and Conditions
Outlines the rules for using your:
- Website
- Mobile App
- Online Service
Why it matters: Limits your liability and keeps you in control of your platform.
9. Capitalization Table (Cap Table)
Tracks ownership and equity:
- Founders’ shares
- Investor shares
- Employee stock options
Why it matters: Essential for fundraising and strategic planning.
10. Service or Sales Agreement
If you’re selling products or services, this covers:
- Payment terms
- Delivery timelines
- Refund and warranty policies
Why it matters: Reduces misunderstandings and protects you legally if customers dispute your service.
Why Nigerian Startups Fail Without These Documents
Many Nigerian entrepreneurs focus only on business registration and forget compliance, contracts, or protecting intellectual property. That’s why:
- Investors walk away
- Disputes kill partnerships
- Global payment gateways reject their applications
Don’t let that be you.
Need Help Setting Up Your Business the Right Way?
Matamah team help businesses:
- Register and structure properly
- Draft all necessary legal documents
- Accept payments globally
- Expand across Nigeria with confidence
- Go from “idea” to “investment-ready”
We understand Nigeria’s business terrain because we’ve helped businesses grow.
Contact us today for a free consultation or click here to request a quote.
Email: support@matamah.com
Phone/WhatsApp: (+234) 080-9502-9999
💬 Have Questions or Comments?
Drop them below. We reply to every comment, and we’re happy to guide you.
Have you launched a startup in Nigeria recently? What challenges did you face with documentation?
👇 Let’s talk in the comments.👇
Pro Tip: Bookmark this page so you never forget these essentials — or share it with someone starting a business in Nigeria.
