PARTNERSHIP FIRM IN NIGERIA: THE TYPES AND FEATURES

Investopedia – Partnership

INTRODUCTION: In Nigeria, partnerships are governed by the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020. Partnerships in Nigeria can be classified into three types: general partnerships, limited partnerships, and limited liability partnerships.

GENERAL PARTNERSHIPS (GPs), are formed by two or more individuals who share the profits and liabilities of the partnership. The partners are jointly and severally liable for all the debts and obligations of the partnership, and each partner has the right to take part in the management and administration of the partnership.

LIMITED PARTNERSHIPS (LPs), on the other hand, consist of one or more general partners and one or more limited partners. The general partners are liable for all the debts and obligations of the partnership. In contrast, the liability of the limited partners is limited to the amount of capital they have contributed to the partnership. Limited partners do not have the right to participate in the partnership’s management and administration.

LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIPS (LLPs) are similar to limited partnerships, but the liability of all partners is limited to their capital contributions. This type of partnership is suitable for professional firms such as law firms, accounting firms, and consulting firms. An LLP may acquire, own, hold and dispose of property, as well as bring and defend actions in its own name. A partner in an LLP could be a Company. Each LLP must have a minimum of two authorized partners, at least one of whom must be a Nigerian national. LLPs are managed by a membership agreement or a partnership agreement and do not have any share capital.

To register a partnership in Nigeria, the appropriate forms and fees must be submitted to the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). Additionally, the partnership must have at least two partners and must be registered with the CAC.

It is strongly recommended that partners enter into a partnership agreement to govern the relationship between themselves and the partnership. It is also worth noting that Partnership is not taxed as an entity, but the partners are taxed on their own income.

In conclusion, understanding the nuances of the different types of partnerships and the registration process is crucial in ensuring the smooth running of the partnership business in Nigeria. It is advisable to seek legal advice before entering into a partnership agreement or registering a partnership with the CAC.

For more guidance and registration of Partnership in Nigeria, feel free to contact us

Tolulope Oguntade 
Regville Associates 
info@regville.com 
08065111667