Change Your Name in Nigeria

Gather your proof of name change

1–3 days · A certified copy of your marriage certificate from the state registry or licensed place of worship, your divorce decree, or a Deed Poll if you are changing your name by choice.

Swear your change-of-name affidavit

1–3 days · ₦2,000–₦5,000. A lawyer prepares the affidavit setting out your old name, new name and reason; you swear it before a Commissioner for Oaths or notary public.

Publish the change in a national newspaper

1–3 days · ₦3,000–₦15,000. Buy several copies of that day's paper — NIMC, the immigration service and the FRSC want the original publication.

Update your NIN at NIMC

2–4 weeks · Book an appointment at an NIMC enrolment centre. Most Nigerian agencies verify your name against NIMC, so completing this first saves repeat visits.

Change the name on your passport

2–6 weeks · Apply through the Nigeria Immigration Service portal for a reissue with a change of name, then attend your appointment for biometric capture. Your old booklet is cancelled.

Update your driver's licence

1–3 weeks · Apply at your state Motor Vehicle Administration Agency, or the FRSC office that handles licensing in your state, and collect the reissued licence.

Update your voter record (PVC)

2–6 weeks · Free. Apply for a change of name at your local government INEC office — voter records are increasingly asked for as proof of address.

Update your bank accounts and BVN

1–5 business days · Free. Take your documents to every bank where you hold an account and ask for a confirmation letter on letterhead for your employer.

Update your tax record with FIRS

5–15 business days · Free. Change the name on your Tax Identification Number through the FIRS TaxPro Max portal so returns, PAYE and refunds stay matched to you.

Employer, pension, health cover and utilities

1–4 weeks · Notify HR and your PenCom pension administrator, move your NHIA or HMO enrolment to the new name, re-verify your SIMs, and update utility, tenancy and property records.