i put this in family cos i couldnt figure out where else to.

please i need information on the legal way to go about changing my surname outside marriage/divorce. i've searched online but i can't find any information that has to do with nigeria. i want to change my surname to one that was previously used by my family. is it allowed?

also, i dont have a birth certificate cos my parents never bothered to collect one from the hospital. is it possible to go and get one from them now in the name i want to change to (that was my name at birth).

would i still be able to use my passport (it's valid till 2012)? will the visas and residence permit on it still be valid when i change my name? is it possible to change the name on my passport? is it possible to get a new passport if the old one is still valid and isn't missing?

my high school certificates all bear my present name. would i have to inform the school when i change the name?

do i really have to go to the ministry in abuja in person? is it a difficult process; do i need to get a lawyer? how long, and how much does this process require?

marry another person that has the name you want,
chikena!!!

Can I ask why you want to give yourself all the headache. It is possible, you have to go to court to have it legally changed and then you also have to take out a newspaper ad. Thats the way it works here. As far as passport and all legal tender you have to carry all that paperwork with you since you are not native to that country. It is a hassle.

Hi,


Go to a Notary Public.

Some firms of Solicitors also act as such.  They would want to see your passport which bears the name that you now wish to change.  The name change is done by Deed Poll whereby you swear an oath with a Bible or the Qur'an, depending on your religion.

You'll then be given a duly-signed (and dated) copy of the Deed Poll showing your previous and new name.  That's it - all done and above board.

You wouldn't need to take any further action about it, unless you wish to publicise it.  Just ensure that you keep a copy of the Deed Poll and be prepared to tender it as evidence of your change of name.




kiwi992.