Building Nigeria's Commercial Future Through Professional Excellence
Officially launched at the University of Lagos on 24 November 1979, the Chartered Institute of Commerce of Nigeria advances professional standards, commercial education, ethical leadership and sustainable economic progress.
Institute Overview & Historic Foundation
The Chartered Institute of Commerce of Nigeria is the premier professional body dedicated to the development, regulation and advancement of commercial practice, business administration and trade governance across Nigeria.
As an independent and non-profit professional organization, CICN provides a respected platform for professional development, accreditation, commercial education, ethical leadership and institutional collaboration.
Independent
Non-political & non-profit professional body
Our Vision
To become Africa’s leading professional institution for commercial excellence, ethical business leadership, trade development and economic advancement.
We envision a Nigeria where commercial professionals operate with competence, integrity, innovation and a strong understanding of local and international markets.
Our Mission
To develop, regulate and promote professional excellence in commerce through credible qualifications, continuing education, ethical standards and practical opportunities.
We deliver this mission through examinations, accreditation, research, professional development, trade guidance and institutional partnerships.
Commercial Practice Standards
Setting professional guidelines for commercial accounting, risk management and corporate governance.
What We Regulate and Champion
Cross-Border Trade Readiness
Equipping Nigerian enterprises for AfCFTA compliance, trade documentation and tariff classification.
Commercial Education
Administering Professional Qualifying Examinations through accredited nationwide centres.
Arbitration & Dispute Resolution
Providing institutional arbitration and conciliation frameworks for domestic and regional contracts.
Five Decades of Institutional Evolution
1979 Official Launch at the University of Lagos
On 24 November 1979, CICN was officially launched as an independent, non-political and non-profit professional body.
1988 Statutory Professional Expansion
Standardized professional syllabus modules and public-sector recognition initiatives were developed.
1999 Nationwide Chapters and Zonal Councils
State chapters and zonal councils expanded professional participation across Nigeria.
2013 Modernized Professional Qualifying Examinations
Structured Foundation, Intermediate and Final examination tracks were introduced.
2026 AfCFTA Era and Digital Trade Integration
The professional curriculum continues to evolve around cross-border trade, digital documentation and sustainable trade finance.
