How To Apply For Change Of Name In Nigeria

If you want to do a change of name in Nigeria, maybe base on marriage, academics or even banking and any other reasons, you will find this article very useful to what you intend to do with regard to changing of name. In this article, you will find the requirements for change of name, who is eligible to change his or her name, the procedures to follow to effect the change of name, and how much is required for the change of name.

What is the eligibility for change of name in Nigeria?

• You must be 18 years and above,
• Must be a citizen of Nigeria,
• Have a genuine reason for the change of name,
• You must not change to an obscene or racist name.

Documents required for a change of name in Nigeria

• A copy of a signed court affidavit showing the change of name of not over 1 year.
• A cutting of a newspaper advertisement showing the publicizing of the change of name of no less than 1 year.
• Two recent passport photographs.
• Drafts for the publishing fees and extra copies, if required.
• Letter of attestation from a recognized person.
• Public announcement of the name change.
• Statutory declaration.
• Proof of official publishing of the name in the Official Nigerian gazette.
• A copy of the official gazette to be attached to the application documents for new documents.
•  An application letter addressed to the Chief Registrar.

What are the procedures for the change of name in Nigeria?

Step 1

The first step towards change of name is to get a sworn affidavit of Change of Name. This is also known as the Deed Pool. You can get this done in any High Court, at the Registry Department.

Step 2

Upon securing a sworn affidavit, approach any national newspaper to have your request for change of name published. This is done to publicly announce that you no longer want to be known by your former name.

Step 3

Apply to the Documentation Department of Publication or Civil Registry to have your new name printed in the Official Nigerian gazette. This will attract a fee of Five Thousand Naira (N5,000). Upon the appearance of your name on the gazette, print and keep the copy.

Your application should follow this line up:

• Affidavit of change of name.

• Newspaper publication showing your name change advert.

• Two recent passport photographs.

• Attestation letter.

Step 4

After you have done the first three steps, next is to apply for new government documents to show your new name. Note that your application should be accompanied by a copy of the Official gazette which indicates your name.

Conclusion

Note that you are to pay the sum of N5, 000 to the newspaper that will publish your change of name. In all, you will be able to successfully start your change of name, say, with N15, 000, which is expected to take care of all the financial requirements.

Source: Nyscinfo