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

  1. Obtain a sworn affidavit from a court (in Nigeria) or a Nigerian embassy (abroad) declaring the name change
  2. Publish in a national newspaper — the publication must include your old name, new name, and the reason for the change
  3. Update your NIN with NIMC to reflect the new name (recommended before passport application)
  4. Apply online at passport.immigration.gov.ng for a new passport with the changed name
  5. Pay the passport fee ($150 for 32-page or $230 for 64-page from abroad)
  6. Book biometric appointment at your nearest Nigerian embassy
  7. Attend with all documents including the affidavit, newspaper, marriage/divorce certificate, and current passport
  8. 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.

Need Help?

Contact your nearest Nigerian embassy for name change assistance.

Find Embassy