Grow your business

Certifications You Need to Open a Daycare in Nigeria

Written by:
| Updated:
January 23, 2025
Certification You Need to Open a Daycare
SHARE THIS BLOG

Imagine walking into a daycare centre where the caregivers are untrained, safety protocols are non-existent, and the environment is far from child-friendly. Would you leave your child there? Absolutely not! Parents want assurance that their little ones are in safe, professional hands. This is why obtaining the right certifications to open a daycare in Nigeria is not just a legal requirement but a mark of trust and credibility.

Starting a daycare is more than just a business venture; it is a commitment to providing quality early childhood care and education. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur or a passionate caregiver, understanding the certifications needed to open a daycare is crucial. This guide will walk you through the essential licenses needed to open a daycare, ensuring that your business meets regulatory standards and gains parents’ confidence.

See also: How to Start a Crèche in Nigeria Successfully

What is a Daycare Centre?

A daycare centre is an establishment designed to provide supervised care, early childhood education, and developmental activities for infants and young children, typically ranging from three months to five years old. It serves as a safe and structured environment where children are nurtured, engaged, and prepared for future schooling while their parents or guardians are at work or occupied with other responsibilities.

Daycare centres are distinct from preschools or nursery schools, as they focus on providing flexible childcare services rather than a rigid academic curriculum. They often incorporate play-based learning, cognitive stimulation, social interactions, and physical activities to support a child’s emotional, social, and intellectual growth. Many daycares also offer meal programs, nap schedules, and age-appropriate educational resources to promote holistic child development.

See also: How to Write a Daycare Centre Business Plan

Advertisement

Certifications and Licenses Needed to Open a Daycare in Nigeria

To operate legally and professionally, you need to obtain several certifications . These ensure that caregivers are well-trained, facilities meet health and safety regulations, and the overall environment is conducive to child development. By obtaining the right certifications, daycare owners can assure parents of their commitment to maintaining high standards of childcare services.

See also: How to Get a Business License in Nigeria For Entrepreneurs

To legally operate a daycare centre, you must obtain the following certifications:

1. Business Registration Certificate

Every daycare must be legally registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to operate as a recognized business entity. This certificate provides legitimacy and allows the business to carry out financial transactions, open bank accounts, and comply with tax regulations.

  • Steps to obtain it:
    • Choose a business name and check for availability on the CAC website.
    • Register your business online via www.cac.gov.ng or via an authorised agent.
    • Submit business documents, including the name, objectives, and owners’ details.
    • Pay the registration fee and wait for approval.
    • Receive the certificate upon successful registration.
  • Where to obtain it: Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

2. Daycare Operational License

This license, issued by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, is a fundamental requirement for running a daycare legally in Nigeria. It ensures that the daycare meets national standards for childcare, safety, and welfare.

The operational license confirms that the daycare is structured to provide a secure and nurturing environment for children and that it adheres to all necessary policies concerning child welfare, caregiver-to-child ratio, and facility requirements. The licensing process involves thorough scrutiny of the daycare’s operational framework, ensuring that the infrastructure, staff qualifications, and care practices align with established guidelines.

  • Steps to obtain it:
    • Apply at the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
    • Submit business registration documents, staff credentials, and facility details.
    • Schedule an inspection to verify compliance with daycare operational standards.
    • Implement any recommended changes and pay the licensing fee.
    • Obtain the operational license upon successful assessment.
  • Where to obtain it: Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

3. Health and Safety Certification

The Ministry of Health mandates this certification to ensure that the daycare maintains a safe and sanitary environment for children. This certification confirms that the daycare adheres to proper hygiene practices, has adequate ventilation, access to clean drinking water, and a waste disposal system. It also ensures that first aid kits and emergency medical response procedures are in place to address any health concerns.

  • Steps to obtain it:
    • Apply at the Ministry of Health.
    • Schedule an inspection to assess hygiene, ventilation, and sanitation.
    • Implement necessary safety protocols, such as childproofing and first-aid availability.
    • Receive certification upon passing the health and safety review.
  • Where to obtain it: Ministry of Health.

4. Fire Safety Certification

The Fire Service Department provides this certification to verify that the daycare meets fire prevention and emergency response standards. This ensures that fire hazards are minimized and that the facility is equipped to handle emergencies through the presence of fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and emergency evacuation plans.

  • Steps to obtain it:
    • Apply to the State Fire Service Department.
    • Schedule a fire risk assessment of the facility.
    • Install necessary fire safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and emergency exits.
    • Pass the fire safety inspection and receive certification.
  • Where to obtain it: State Fire Service Department.

5. Staff Certification and Training

Staff working in a daycare must be properly trained in early childhood education, child safety, and emergency response. Caregivers are required to undergo training in First Aid, CPR, and Childcare Development from accredited institutions. This certification ensures that the staff is equipped to handle children’s developmental needs, emergencies, and provide a safe learning environment.

  • Steps to obtain it:
    • Enroll in an accredited childcare training program.
    • Complete courses covering early childhood education, first aid, and CPR.
    • Obtain certification upon successful completion of training.
  • Where to obtain it: Ministry of Women Affairs, accredited training institutions, and organizations like the Red Cross.

6. Environmental Approval

This certification, issued by the State Environmental Protection Agency, ensures that the daycare maintains proper sanitation and environmental safety practices. The certificate confirms that the facility is free from environmental hazards, properly manages waste, and meets air and water quality standards.

  • Steps to obtain it:
    • Apply to the State Environmental Protection Agency.
    • Allow an inspection of the premises to assess sanitation and waste disposal measures.
    • Implement recommended environmental hygiene practices.
    • Receive approval upon compliance.
  • Where to obtain it: State Environmental Protection Agency.

7. Tax Identification and Compliance

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) requires every daycare to obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) to ensure compliance with tax obligations. Registering for a TIN enables daycare owners to meet tax responsibilities, avoid legal penalties, and operate within the legal framework.

  • Steps to obtain it:
    • Register with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
    • Submit business registration documents and other necessary paperwork.
    • Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) for tax compliance.
    • File tax returns as required by law.
  • Where to obtain it: Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS)

See also: How Long Does It Take to Get TIN in Nigeria?

Government Regulatory Bodies for Daycare Certification in Nigeria

The process of obtaining the necessary certifications and licenses to operate a daycare in Nigeria involves several government agencies. Each agency plays a role in ensuring that daycare centres meet regulatory, health, safety, and business standards.

1. Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development

The Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development is the primary regulatory authority for daycare centres in Nigeria. It is responsible for issuing operational licenses, setting childcare standards, and ensuring that daycare providers meet minimum operational requirements.

The ministry conducts routine inspections to verify compliance with regulations, evaluates the qualifications of caregivers, and ensures that facilities are equipped to cater to children’s developmental needs.

2. Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) oversees the legal registration of daycare businesses. Every daycare must be formally registered as a business entity under Nigerian law. This certification grants the daycare official recognition, allowing it to conduct legal transactions, open business bank accounts, and operate without the risk of being shut down for non-compliance.

3. Ministry of Health

The Ministry of Health plays a crucial role in ensuring that daycare centres maintain high hygiene and sanitation standards. The ministry assesses whether facilities have proper ventilation, clean water supply, waste disposal systems, and general health practices to protect children from preventable illnesses.

Health inspections are mandatory before a daycare centre can receive approval to operate.

4. Fire Service Department

The Fire Service Department is responsible for evaluating the fire safety preparedness of daycare centres. This includes assessing fire exit routes, the presence of firefighting equipment, staff training in emergency response, and adherence to fire prevention protocols. Fire safety certification is a prerequisite for obtaining an operational license.

5. State Environmental Protection Agency

The State Environmental Protection Agency ensures that daycare centres adhere to environmental health regulations. This includes waste management, pollution control, and maintaining a clean and hazard-free environment for children. Proper disposal of waste and maintaining sanitary conditions are key areas of focus.

6. Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS)

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) ensures that daycare businesses comply with tax obligations. All daycare operators must obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) and fulfill tax requirements, including corporate tax and other statutory financial obligations. This helps in keeping the business legally compliant and eligible for financial services.

By working with these regulatory bodies, daycare operators can ensure their business meets the highest standards of safety, hygiene, and professional care. Adhering to these regulations not only keeps the daycare legally compliant but also builds trust with parents and guardians who seek a safe and nurturing environment for their children.

Key Takeaways from Certifications You Need to Open a Daycare in Nigeria

  • Obtaining the right certifications is essential for legally operating a daycare in Nigeria.
  • Ensuring compliance with safety, health, and operational standards fosters trust with parents and guardians.
  • Proper business registration establishes legal credibility and helps in financial and administrative transactions.
  • Daycare operators must maintain high standards in hygiene, fire safety, and environmental responsibility.
  • Government regulations aim to provide children with a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment.
  • Adhering to the certification process prevents legal issues and potential business shutdowns.
  • A well-structured and certified daycare attracts more clients and enhances business sustainability.

Conclusion

Starting a daycare in Nigeria requires careful planning, adherence to regulations, and obtaining the necessary licenses and certifications. The licenses needed to open a daycare ensure compliance with safety, health, and operational standards. By securing the right certifications, you demonstrate professionalism, enhance credibility, and establish a safe learning environment for children.

Whether you’re an educator, entrepreneur, or caregiver, taking the right steps now will shape the future of your daycare. The process may seem overwhelming, but with determination and adherence to legal requirements, you can create a thriving and legally compliant daycare that meets both parental and governmental expectations.

For more detailed insights and professional support, explore our business resources, such as templates and guides to streamline your operations. If you need tailored advice, connect with experts through our Ask An Expert service.

Enroll for the Entrepreneurs Success Blueprint Program for expert guidance and step-by-step strategies to achieve your goals!

FAQs on Certifications You Need to Open a Daycare in Nigeria

What certifications do you need to open a daycare in Nigeria?

To open a daycare in Nigeria, you need a Business Registration Certificate, a Daycare Operational License, Health and Safety Certification, Fire Safety Certification, and Environmental Approval.

How long does it take to get a daycare operational license?

The time-frame varies by state, but it generally takes between four to eight weeks, depending on how quickly inspections and necessary approvals are completed.

Is business registration mandatory for opening a daycare?

Yes, business registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is required to establish the daycare as a legal entity and operate without legal risks.

What are the fire safety requirements for a daycare centre?

Daycare centres must have proper fire exit routes, installed fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and an emergency evacuation plan. Staff should also receive fire safety training.

How can I ensure my daycare meets health and sanitation standards?

You must undergo a health inspection by the Ministry of Health, maintain proper hygiene practices, have clean drinking water, proper waste disposal, and ensure a child-friendly sanitary environment.

What happens if my daycare operates without proper certification?

Operating without proper certification can lead to fines, legal action, closure of the daycare, and loss of trust from parents and guardians.

Can I open a daycare from my home?

Yes, but you must still obtain all necessary licenses and certifications to ensure the home daycare meets childcare and safety regulations.

SHARE THIS BLOG

Ready to launch your dream business? Join the paid Entrepreneur 30/30 – Start Your Business in 30 Days Programme and turn your idea into reality alongside other entrepreneurs with expert mentorship. Click to register now!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Austin Samuel

Related posts

This is how we can help you

Entrepreneurs work with established businesses, aspiring entrepreneurs, and those looking to scale across various industries—product-based, service-based, and beyond. We serve clients across Africa and globally, wherever you are.

Entrepreneurs Success Blueprint Program

Ask an expert

Shared and virtual offices

Entrepreneur books and courses

Reach our Audience, Accelerate your Business Growth.

Over the past 9 years we’ve reached over a million Entrepreneurs yearly. Let us put your business in front of our audience through a tailored SEO Centric and Newsletter strategy that will get you results.

Get our Best Content in your Inbox

Join 20k+ entrepreneurs for  strategies and resources you could ever need to launch, grow and scale your business — straight to your email!

Entrepreneurs Sign Up

Entrepreneurs.ng only uses this info to send content and updates. You may unsubscribe anytime.