How to Change Your Name on a Nigerian Passport
Name changes on a Nigerian passport can be done for marriage, divorce, court-ordered changes, or personal reasons. The process requires specific legal documentation depending on the reason for the change.
Name Change Due to Marriage
Required Documents
- Marriage certificate (original and certified copy)
- Current passport with maiden name
- Sworn affidavit of name change
- Newspaper publication announcing the name change in a national newspaper
- NIN updated to reflect new name (if possible)
- Two passport photographs
- Completed online application via NIS portal
If married abroad, the foreign marriage certificate must be authenticated by the Nigerian embassy.
Name Change Due to Divorce
Required Documents
- Divorce decree absolute (certified copy)
- Current passport
- Sworn affidavit of name reversion
- Newspaper publication in a national newspaper
- Two passport photographs
- Completed online application
Personal Name Change (Deed Poll)
Required Documents
- Court affidavit / deed poll declaring the name change
- Newspaper publication in at least one national newspaper
- Current passport
- NIN updated to new name
- Two passport photographs
- Completed online application
The newspaper publication must clearly state your old name and new name. Keep multiple copies of the newspaper.
Step-by-Step Process
- Obtain a sworn affidavit from a court (in Nigeria) or a Nigerian embassy (abroad) declaring the name change
- Publish in a national newspaper — the publication must include your old name, new name, and the reason for the change
- Update your NIN with NIMC to reflect the new name (recommended before passport application)
- Apply online at passport.immigration.gov.ng for a new passport with the changed name
- Pay the passport fee ($150 for 32-page or $230 for 64-page from abroad)
- Book biometric appointment at your nearest Nigerian embassy
- Attend with all documents including the affidavit, newspaper, marriage/divorce certificate, and current passport
- Collect your new passport when notified (6-8 weeks from abroad)
Important Notes
- NIN mismatch: If your NIN still shows your old name, your passport application may be delayed. Update NIN first where possible.
- Both names appear: During the transition, carry both old and new passports plus your name change documents when travelling.
- Other documents: Remember to update your name on other documents too — bank accounts, driver licence, voter card, etc.
- Children: To change a child’s name on their passport, both parents must consent unless there is a court order.
Related Pages
Need Help?
Contact your nearest Nigerian embassy for name change assistance.
Find Embassy