A Central Holder Number (CHN) is a unique identifier assigned to every registered investor in the Nigerian capital market. It links you to your CSCS account and all share records held in your name.
Definition
A CHN (Central Holder Number) is a unique identification number assigned to every registered investor in the Nigerian capital market, linking them to their CSCS account and share records.
The CHN is your permanent investor ID in the Nigerian capital market. It is used to track every share purchase, dividend payment, and corporate action tied to your portfolio. Without a CHN, your shares cannot be registered in your name.
Your CHN is assigned by CSCS when a registered stockbroker opens an account on your behalf. This typically happens automatically when you begin investing through a regulated platform or broker.
When Shares Saver instructs a regulated broker to purchase shares on your behalf, part of that process involves ensuring your CHN is correctly linked to your account. This ensures all purchased shares are registered in your name under your CHN.
Your CHN number stays with you permanently — it does not change if you switch brokers or platforms. All share records across different companies are consolidated under your single CHN.
No. When you invest through Shares Saver, the broker handles CHN assignment as part of the account setup process. You do not need to contact CSCS directly.
No. Each investor in the Nigerian capital market has only one CHN. If you have multiple accounts from different brokers, they should all reference the same CHN.
Your CHN may appear on any communication from CSCS, your broker, or the company registrar. It can also be found by contacting your broker or checking the Shares Saver app.
Shares Saver lets you buy and own NGX-listed shares directly in your own name through regulated broker execution.
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