A marriage certificate is an official document that serves as legal proof of marriage between two individuals. In Nigeria, marriage certificates are issued based on the type of marriage conducted, which can be statutory (court), customary, or religious. This guide explains the process of obtaining a marriage certificate in Nigeria.

Types of Marriages Recognized in Nigeria

1. Statutory Marriage – Conducted at a registry and governed by Nigerian marriage laws.
2. Customary Marriage – Performed according to traditional customs and recognized under customary law.
3. Religious Marriage – Conducted in a place of worship, often followed by a statutory or customary process to ensure legal recognition.

Steps to Obtain a Marriage Certificate in Nigeria

For Statutory Marriage (Court Marriage)

1. Visit a Marriage Registry
   • Locate a Federal or Local Government Marriage Registry.
   • Obtain and complete the Notice of Marriage form.
2. Publication of Notice
   • The notice is displayed for 21 days at the registry.
   • If no objections arise, the couple proceeds to the next step.
3. Submission of Required Documents
   • Valid identification (international passport, national ID, or driver’s license).
   • Birth certificates or age declaration.
   • Passport photographs.
   • Sworn affidavit of marital status (single, divorced, or widowed).
   • Parental consent (if either party is under 21 years old).
4. Payment of Fees
   • Pay the prescribed fees as required by the registry.
5. Marriage Ceremony at the Registry
   • The couple and witnesses must be present for the ceremony.
   • The marriage is solemnized and registered.
   • The couple receives a signed marriage certificate.

For Customary or Religious Marriage

1. Conduct the Traditional or Religious Ceremony
   • Follow customary or religious practices recognized by both families.
2. Obtain a Letter of Attestation
   • Obtain proof of marriage from the religious institution or community leader.
3. Register the Marriage at a Registry
   • Visit a marriage registry with supporting documents.
   • Submit the attestation letter along with other required documents.
   • Pay the necessary fees.
   • Receive a government-recognized marriage certificate.