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Last updated: 6 février 2026

An Affidavit of Change of Name is a legal document used in Nigeria to formally declare a change in one's name.

This document is crucial for individuals who wish to be officially known by a name different from what appears on their initial identification or educational documents.

It serves as a sworn statement under oath, confirming the change and the reasons for it.

When is it required?

  • Marriage: A woman adopting her husband's surname or a hyphenated surname.
  • Divorce or Separation: Reverting to a maiden name or a previous surname.
  • Personal Preference: Choosing to change one's name for personal reasons.
  • Correction of Error: Rectifying a spelling mistake or factual error in existing official documents.
  • Religious Conversion: Adopting a new name in line with religious beliefs.
  • Other Reasons: Any other legitimate reason for altering one's name officially.

Legal Standing:

This affidavit is prepared in accordance with the Statutory Declarations Act of 1960.

It is a statement made under oath, meaning the person making the declaration (the deponent) is legally bound to the truth of the statements.

Providing false information in an affidavit is a criminal offense punishable under the Penal or Criminal Codes of Nigeria.

Procedure:

Once generated, this document must be taken to a High Court of Justice or a Magistrate Court within the relevant Judicial Division (e.

g.

, Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt).

The deponent must sign it in the presence of a Commissioner for Oaths, who will then stamp and seal the document for it to gain legal validity.

Following this, it is highly recommended to publish the change of name in a widely circulated newspaper to provide public notice, which is often a requirement for updating other official documents like passports, bank accounts, and educational certificates.

Similar Models

Affidavit of Declaration of Age

A Statutory Declaration of Age (or Affidavit of Age) is a legal document commonly used in Nigeria as a substitute for a birth certificate issued by the National Population Commission (NPC). This document is essential for individuals who were born before the establishment of modern digital registries or in areas where birth registration was not immediate. When is it required? Employment: Most employers in Nigeria require proof of age to determine retirement eligibility and verify credentials. Banking: Opening a bank account often requires a valid age declaration if a birth certificate is missing. Passport Applications: The Nigerian Immigration Service accepts affidavits of age alongside other supporting documents. School Enrollment: Primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions use this to confirm the age of applicants. Legal Standing: This affidavit is prepared in accordance with the Statutory Declarations Act of 1960 . It is a statement made under oath, meaning the person making the declaration (the deponent) is legally bound to the truth of the statements. Providing false information in an affidavit is a criminal offense punishable under the Penal or Criminal Codes of Nigeria. Procedure: Once generated, this document must be taken to a High Court of Justice or a Magistrate Court within the relevant Judicial Division (e.g., Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt). The deponent must sign it in the presence of a Commissioner for Oaths , who will then stamp and seal the document for it to gain legal validity.

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