Losing a marriage certificate can be stressful, especially when it is needed for legal, immigration, or official documentation. Fortunately, there are procedures in place to obtain a replacement in Nigeria. This guide outlines the steps to recover a lost Nigerian marriage certificate.

Steps to Replace a Lost Marriage Certificate

Step 1: Report the Loss

• Visit the nearest police station and file a report about the lost marriage certificate.
• Obtain a sworn affidavit from a court stating that the certificate has been lost.

Step 2: Visit the Marriage Registry Where the Marriage Was Registered

• If the marriage was conducted at a local or federal registry, visit the same office.
• Request an application form for a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the marriage certificate.

Step 3: Provide Required Documents

• Sworn affidavit confirming the loss of the certificate.
• Police report documenting the missing certificate.
• Valid means of identification (e.g., national ID, driver’s license, or passport).
• A copy of the lost marriage certificate (if available).

Step 4: Pay the Applicable Fees

• Processing fees vary by location and registry.
• Obtain a payment receipt after making the necessary payments.

Step 5: Collect the Certified True Copy

• After submission and verification, a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the marriage certificate will be issued.
• The processing time may take a few days to a couple of weeks depending on the registry.

Additional Steps for Authentication

• If the certificate needs to be used for international purposes, it must be authenticated at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• Some foreign countries may require further legalization at their embassy.