Introduction
A change of name is the legal process of adopting a new name and replacing a previously used first name, middle name, or surname. Common reasons for changing a name include marriage, divorce, adoption, or personal preference. Once completed, the new name can be updated on official records and identification documents.
What you need
For Marriage
- Marriage Certificate.
For Divorce
- Divorce Decree or Decree Nisi.
For General Name Changes
- Sworn Affidavit
- Newspaper publication announcing the change of name.
- Valid means of identification, such as:
- National Identification Number (NIN) slip or card.
- International Passport.
- Driver’s Licence.
- Voter’s Card.
How to change
- Visit a High Court or Magistrate Court to swear an Affidavit declaring your intention to discontinue the use of your former name and adopt a new one.
- Publish a notice of the name change in a widely circulated national newspaper to inform the public and create a public record of the change.
- Submit an application to the Federal Government Press for publication of the name change in the Official Gazette by submitting your affidavit, newspaper publication, formal application letter and any additional supporting documents, where applicable.
- Upon successful publication in the Official Gazette, proceed to update your name on relevant government records and identification documents.
Payment
The cost of changing a name varies depending on the services required. Common fees include:
- Affidavit – ₦2,180
- Newspaper Publication from ₦3,000 – ₦7,200.
- NIN name modification is ₦2,000 per field.
- Gazette publication and other administrative charges may apply.
Links
Report/complaint
If you witness any form of corruption or poor service delivery, contact the Federal Ministry of Justice at info@justice.gov.ng or 08024168778.
You can also contact us to guide you and engage relevant authorities to help resolve the issue(s).