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.