Names are a big part of our identity. But sometimes, people choose to change their names for personal, cultural, or religious reasons. Maybe you got married, divorced, or just want a fresh start or you are adopted and needs to change to your new family name.
The good news is that changing your name legally in Nigeria is easy and straightforward if you follow the right process.
In this write-up we will explains step-by-step guide on how to change your name, the documents you will need and how to ensure your new name is officially recognized everywhere.
Why People Change Their Names in Nigeria
In Nigeria, there are diverse reasons why people change their names some of which are listed below;
- Marriage (taking or dropping a spouse’s name)
- Divorce or separation (reverting to maiden name)
- Religious or cultural reasons
- Adoption or family circumstances
- Correcting spelling errors in official documents
- Personal choice (choosing a completely new name)
What the Law Says About Name Changes in Nigeria
In Nigeria, changing your name is perfectly legal. The key laws that make it possible include:
- The Births, Deaths, etc. (Compulsory Registration) Act – allows for corrections and updates in names.
- The Oaths Act – governs affidavits, which are used to declare your new name.
- The Nigerian Constitution (Section 37) – guarantees your right to privacy, which extends to personal choices like your name.
- Ezeanah v. Atta (2004) 7 NWLR (Pt. 873) 468 – The court emphasized that a person has a right to change their name, provided it is not for fraudulent purposes. Also, in Okonkwo v. Okonkwo (2014) LPELR-24037(CA) – Showed the legal weight of affidavits and publications in resolving identity disputes.
Note: Once you swear an affidavit and publish your new name in a newspaper, it becomes legally recognized.
Read: Affidavit and its uses in Nigeria
Step-by-Step guide to Change Your Name Legally in Nigeria
Here is how you can change your name in 3 simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare a name change Affidavit: An affidavit is a sworn declaration on oath you make before a Commissioner for Oaths or a Notary Public. What to include in your affidavit are; your current name, your new name, statement declaring you are the same person and wish to be known by the new name, your reason for the change which is optional but recommended.
Note; An affidavit is the foundation document for your name change.
Step 2: Publish Your New Name in a Newspaper: take your affidavit to a national or widely circulated newspaper and place a name change announcement often called a public notice. This makes your name change public and verifiable.
Example format of a newspaper publication:
“Formerly known as Susan Onyebuchi Amaechi, now wishes to be known and addressed as Susan Onyebuchi Ezeh. All documents remain valid. Concerned authorities should take note.”
Step 3: Apply for Gazette Publication (Optional but Strongly Recommended)
The Federal Government Gazette is Nigeria’s official record of public notices.
Why you need it:
- It provides permanent, government-backed proof of your name change.
- Many institutions like immigration or embassies require a gazette publication before updating your passport or certificates.
How to get it:
- Write an application to the Publication Department, Federal Government Press, Abuja or Lagos.
- Submit your affidavit, newspaper publication, and any form of identification.
- Pay the required fee.
- Your name change will be printed in the gazette.
Once your affidavit and publication are done, you can use them to update the following:
- National ID (NIN)
- Bank records
- BVN
- International Passport
- Driver’s License
- Academic certificates (some may require extra steps)
- Employment records etc.
Read also: ADOPTION OF CHILDREN IN NIGERIA (STEPS AND PROCEDURES)
In conclusion, changing your name in Nigeria is legal, easy and straightforward. Although gazette publication gives your name change official government backing, the affidavit and newspaper publication are the most important documents that evidence the change of name.
Whether you are getting married, divorced, or simply want a fresh identity, a legal name change in Nigeria is a simple process anyone can follow. Start with an affidavit, make a newspaper publication, and optionally request a gazette. This small effort can save you from future legal hassles and ensure your new name is recognized everywhere. Always update your official documents to avoid future identity issues.
For further enquiry
Email: info@verazadvocates.com.ng
Call/WhatsApp: +234 8116486356
