Introduction
The Affidavit of Compound Name is a specialized legal instrument used when an individual wishes to combine two surnames or add a middle name to their surname to form a double-barrelled name (e.

g.

, changing from 'Ngozi Adebayo' to 'Ngozi Okonjo-Adebayo').

This is distinct from a simple change of name because it focuses on the preservation of a lineage or a maiden name alongside a marital name.

Significance
This affidavit is popular among professional women who wish to retain their maiden name for career continuity while acknowledging their marital status.

It is also used by families wishing to preserve a historic family name by compounding it with their current surname.

The affidavit serves as legal authority for the hyphenation or combination of names.

Requirements
Like other name-related affidavits, this document must be sworn in a High Court.

It must clearly state the previous simple name and the new compound name.

Once sworn, this affidavit allows the deponent to update their passport, driver's license, and bank details to reflect the compound format.

It is a critical document for avoiding confusion regarding the deponent's identity in professional and legal circles.