How To Getting Married in Nigeria?

Getting married is a significant milestone in life, and in Nigeria, it's a celebration filled with cultural richness and tradition. Whether you're a Nigerian resident or a foreigner planning to tie the knot in this vibrant country, understanding the process and requirements is crucial.

Here is a guide to help you through the process if you're thinking about getting married in Nigeria.

Legal Requirements

It's crucial to understand Nigerian legal requirements before moving forward with marriage plans. Nigerian marriage registration is governed by the Marriage Act of 1990, which is applicable to all citizens, regardless of race or religion.

Steps to Getting Married:

1. Notice of Marriage: The first step is to notify the local government agency or marriage registration, where the bride or groom resides, of your decision to get married. It is necessary to provide this notice at least 21 days prior to the wedding day.

2. Registration: In Nigeria, marriages must be officially recorded at a registry or with government-approved religious authorities. Special marriage and ordinary marriage are the two main types of marriage that are officially recognized.

   • Special Marriage: This is conducted at a registry and follows the provisions of the Marriage Act. It is legally binding and recognized worldwide.
   • Ordinary Marriage: This involves traditional rites and ceremonies according to the customs of the ethnic group or community. It is recognized under Nigerian law but may not be valid outside the country without proper documentation.
3. Documents Required: 
   • You must have a marriage license from the registrar in order to complete a special marriage. This calls for submitting the required documents and paying the associated costs.
   • Documentation such as traditional marriage certificates, consent letters from both families, and any additional customs unique to the ethnic group are needed for customary marriages.
      
      You must supply a number of documents, such as:
   • Proper identification, such as a national identity card or passport.
      birth certificates.
   • Proof of divorce or a death certificate, if either of the parties have been married before.
   • Four passport-sized photos of the bride and husband, separately.
4. Ceremony:
   • Nigerian traditional marriage rituals differ greatly based on the ethnic group. It's critical to understand and honor the traditions and practices of the community you're getting married to.
   • For statutory marriages, the ceremony is typically held at the registry office, with a registrar officiating the proceedings.

5. Witnesses:

   • Both special and ordinary marriages need witnesses. As witnesses to the union, they must sign the marriage registration and be present throughout the ceremony.

6. Post-Marriage Procedures:

   • It is required to get a marriage certificate from the registry or the relevant religious body following the marriage ceremony.
   • As legal documentation of the union, the marriage certificate may be needed for a number of activities, including real estate transactions and visa applications.

7. Cultural Sensitivity:

   • Nigeria is a multicultural nation with more than 250 ethnic groups, each with its unique traditions and customs. It is important to approach marriage rituals with regard for local customs and cultural sensitivity.
   • It is possible to enhance the significance and memory of your wedding ceremony by being aware of and adopting ancient rituals.

8. Legal Recognition:

   • In Nigeria, a legally recognized marriage brings a number of advantages, such as the right to inherit, access to healthcare and insurance benefits, and the capacity to sponsor a spouse for citizenship or residency.

Prohibited Degrees of Relationship

Nigerian law prohibits marriage to people in specific relationship levels. Mother, father, daughter, son, sister, brother, and other close relatives are among the connections that fall under this category. The goal of the law is to protect family unity and forbid incestuous couplings.

Conclusion

In Nigeria, getting married requires fulfilling both legal and traditional requirements. Understanding the legal requirements and executing the required actions guarantees that your marriage is acknowledged and lawful in Nigeria.