A step-by-step guide to a valid marriage under the Marriage Act in Nigeria (YFL 001)

Meet the Eligibility Criteria

1. Both parties must be at least 18 years old (or 16 years old with parental consent)
2. Both parties must provide their free consent to the marriage.
3. Both parties must be single and free to marry.
4. Both parties must be mentally capable of understanding the nature of marriage.
5. Both parties must not be related by blood or adoption or affinity.
6. No Impediment: there must be no impediment to the marriage, such as a pre-existing marriage or close blood relationship.

Step 1: Choose a Marriage Registry

Select a federal marriage registry closest to you. There are several locations across Nigeria.

Step 2: Obtain a Marriage License

Apply for and fill a marriage license form from the marriage registry. You’ll need to provide:

1. A valid means of identification
2.  A birth certificate
3. A divorce or death certificate (if applicable)
4. Payment for the license fee (currently ₦10,000)

Step 2: Documents required to obtain a valid marriage

1. Valid ID: A valid government-issued ID (e.g., national ID card, driver’s license, or international passport).
2. Birth Certificate: A birth certificate or an age declaration affidavit.
3. Divorce or Death Certificate: If either party has been previously married, a divorce or death certificate must be presented.
4. Passport Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photographs of each party.

Step 3: Conduct the Marriage Ceremony

Conduct the marriage ceremony at the marriage registry or a licensed place of worship. The ceremony must be:

1. Conducted by a licensed marriage registrar at the marriage registry or a priest at a licensed place of worship.
2. Witnessed by at least two people
3. Performed in the presence of the marriage officer or a priest in an open licensed place of worship before 6pm.

Step 5: Sign the Marriage Certificate

Sign the marriage certificate in the presence of the marriage registrar or the officiating priest.

 The certificate must be:

1. Signed by the couple
2. Witnessed by at least two people
3. Stamped and signed by the marriage registrar or priest.

Step 6: Register the Marriage

Register the marriage with the relevant authorities, including:

1. The National Population Commission (NPC)
2. The local government marriage registry

Step 7: Obtain a Certified Marriage Certificate

Obtain a certified marriage certificate from the marriage registry or the National Population Commission (NPC). This certificate is:

1. Proof of marriage
2. Required for official purposes (e.g., passport, visa, employment)

Please note that the fees and processing times may vary depending on the marriage registry and the speed of service.

Timeline

1. Notice Period: A minimum of 21 days’ notice is required before the marriage ceremony can take place.
2. License Validity: The marriage license is valid for 3 months from the date of issuance.
3. Registration: The marriage must be registered within 3 months of the marriage ceremony.

Fees

1. Marriage License Fee: ₦10,000
2.  Certified Marriage Certificate Fee: ₦5,000 – ₦10,000

Important Notes

1. Marriage Registry: Ensure you register your marriage at a licensed marriage registry or a place of worship authorized to conduct marriages.
2. Certified Marriage Certificate: Obtain a certified marriage certificate, as it is a vital document required for official purposes.

If you require more information, clarity or you need legal assistance to manage or resolve any issues before you proceed to marry, please click here