Verification Requirements: Nigeria, Ghana & Kenya
KYB (Know Your Business) verification is required before you can access the full range of Bitnob Business features, including sending, receiving, and converting funds. The documents we need depend on how your business is registered, so it's worth gathering everything before you begin. Having your documents ready upfront avoids delays.
Requirement per business type
1. Sole Proprietorship or Partnership
This applies to businesses owned and operated by one person (sole proprietorship) or by two or more people under a shared agreement (partnership).
You’ll need:
Business Name Registration Certificate
State registry excerpt showing owners (status report) OR Partnership Deed
Proof of business address
Bank statement (last 6 months) or Audited Financials
SCUML Certificate - Nigeria only, if your business is classified as a DNFBP - Designated Non‑Financial Businesses and Profession
2. LLC / Private Limited Company
This applies to formally registered companies with limited liability, including Private Limited Companies (Ltd) incorporated in Nigeria, Ghana, or Kenya.
You’ll need:
Certificate of Incorporation
Memorandum & Articles of Association
State registry excerpt showing shareholders (5% or more) and directors (Status Report)
Bank statement (last 6 months) or Audited Financials
Proof of business address (must be dated within the last 3 months)
SCUML Certificate - Nigeria only, if your business is classified as a DNFBP.
3. NGO / Incorporated Trustees
This applies to non-governmental organisations, foundations, and incorporated trustees operating in any of the three markets.
You’ll need:
Certificate of Incorporation or NGO Registration Certificate
Constitution or Trust Deed
Proof of business address (must be dated within the last 3 months)
Status report of trustees / board members
Bank statement (last 6 months) or Audited Financials
Principal activities or mission statement
SCUML Certificate - Nigeria only, if your business is classified as a DNFBP.
4. SCUML Certificate (Nigeria Only)
SCUML stands for Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering. It is a Nigerian government body that registers and monitors certain types of businesses to help prevent financial crime.
Who needs a SCUML Certificate?
Only businesses based in Nigeria that fall into the DNFBP category are required to provide a SCUML certificate.
DNFBP stands for Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions. These are businesses that, while not banks or financial institutions, can potentially be used to move or hide money.
Which businesses are classified as DNFBPs?
If your business falls into any of the categories below, you will need to provide a SCUML certificate:
Audit Firms
Tax Consultants
Notaries
Trust & Company Service Providers
Real Estate Agents
Estate Developers
Estate Brokers
Mortgage Brokers
Construction Companies
Importers and Dealers in Automobiles
Car Dealers
Dealers in Luxury Goods
Dealers in Jewelry
Dealers in Precious Metals and Precious Stones
Supermarkets (large-scale operators)
Hotels
Casinos (land-based and online)
Gaming operators
Pool betting and lottery operators
NGOs (Non-Governmental Organisations)
Charities
Religious organisations (where applicable)
Dealers in mechanized farming equipment
If you are unsure whether your business qualifies as a DNFBP, we recommend checking with your compliance team or contacting the SCUML office directly at https://scuml.efcc.gov.ng/
How to get a SCUML Certificate
You can register and obtain your SCUML certificate through the official SCUML portal. The certificate confirms that your business is registered and compliant with Nigerian anti-money laundering regulations.
Tips for a Smooth Submission
Make sure all documents are clear, legible, and not expired.
Proof of address must not be older than 3 months (for LLCs and NGOs).
Bank statements must cover the last 6 consecutive months.
For partnerships, you can provide either a State registry excerpt or a Partnership Deed — not both.
All documents should be in English, or accompanied by a certified English translation.
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