If your bank asked for a SCUML certificate and you weren’t sure why, this guide explains who needs SCUML registration in Nigeria, the full list of designated businesses, the documents required and what happens if you don’t register.
What is SCUML?
SCUML — the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering — is a unit of the EFCC created to register, monitor and supervise Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022. A SCUML certificate proves your business is registered and subject to anti-money-laundering supervision.
Businesses and professions that must register with SCUML
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Non-profits | NGOs, churches, mosques, foundations, charities, associations (all incorporated trustees) |
| Real estate | Estate agents, property developers, property managers, estate surveyors |
| Dealers in high-value goods | Car dealers, jewellers, dealers in precious metals and stones, luxury goods |
| Professional services | Lawyers, notaries, accountants, auditors, tax advisers, trust and company service providers |
| Consulting | Management, business, IT and other consulting firms |
| Hospitality & gaming | Hotels, event centres, casinos, pool betting, lotteries |
| Trading | Supermarkets, general merchandise dealers, importers and exporters |
| Logistics | Clearing and forwarding agents, freight forwarders |
| Finance-adjacent | Mortgage brokers, chartered accountancy firms, mechanised farming with large cash flows |
The list is broad on purpose. If your business receives significant cash or acts as an intermediary for other people’s money or assets, assume you are a DNFBP.
Why your bank is asking for it
The CBN requires banks to confirm that DNFBP customers are registered with SCUML. Banks apply this at account opening and during periodic KYC reviews — which is why long-standing accounts suddenly get restricted with a request for the certificate. Without it the bank may refuse to open the account, place a post-no-debit restriction, or close it.
SCUML registration requirements
- CAC certificate (business name, company or incorporated trustees)
- CAC status report or form showing proprietors / directors / trustees
- Memorandum & articles (company) or constitution (NGO)
- TIN certificate — get one here if you don’t have it
- Valid ID and passport photograph of a director / proprietor / trustee
- Utility bill for the business address (not older than 3 months)
- Completed SCUML application form
Penalties for not registering
Operating as a DNFBP without SCUML registration is an offence. Consequences include fines, freezing or closure of bank accounts, inability to transact with banks and, in serious cases, prosecution. The cost of registering is a fraction of the cost of a frozen account.
How to register
Applications are submitted on the SCUML portal with the documents above. Topweb Technologies confirms whether you are a DNFBP (free), prepares and files the application, follows up with the EFCC and delivers the certificate as PDF — from ₦25,000, in 5–10 working days, anywhere in Nigeria.
Frequently asked questions
Does every registered company need SCUML?
Legally, only Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) must register. In practice, banks now ask most service, consulting, trading and non-profit organisations for it before opening or maintaining a corporate account.
Do NGOs and churches need SCUML?
Yes. All non-profits and incorporated trustees are DNFBPs and must register with SCUML.
Does a small business name need SCUML?
If the business activity is on the DNFBP list (e.g. consulting, real estate, car dealing, supermarket, hotel), yes — regardless of size or whether it is a business name or a company.
Is there a penalty for not registering?
Operating as a DNFBP without SCUML registration is an offence under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 and can attract fines, account restrictions and prosecution.