Power of Attorney at Nigerian Embassies

General Power of Attorney

Grants broad authority to your representative (attorney-in-fact) to act on your behalf in all legal and financial matters. This is used when you need someone to manage multiple affairs in Nigeria.

Special Power of Attorney

Grants authority for specific transactions only, such as:

• Selling or buying property
• Collecting documents (certificates, deeds)
• Representing you in court proceedings
• Managing a specific bank account
• Signing contracts on your behalf
• Handling inheritance or estate matters

A special POA is recommended over a general POA as it limits the scope of authority and reduces risk of misuse.

• Valid Nigerian passport (original for identification)
• Draft Power of Attorney document (you can prepare this with a lawyer or the embassy can assist)
• Full details of the attorney (representative in Nigeria): name, address, phone, ID
• Details of the transaction or property involved
• Property documents (if related to property transactions)
• Two passport photographs
• Fee payment ($50 - $100)

1. Draft the POA document — clearly state what powers are being granted, to whom, and for what purpose
2. Contact the embassy to confirm requirements and book an appointment if needed
3. Attend the embassy with all required documents and your representative’s details
4. Sign the POA before the consular officer who will witness your signature and administer the oath
5. Pay the fee
6. Receive the authenticated POA typically the same day or within 1-3 business days
7. Send the original to your representative in Nigeria via secure courier

• Choose your representative carefully — they will have legal authority to act on your behalf
• Be specific about what powers you are granting to avoid misuse
• Include an expiry date where appropriate
• You can revoke a POA at any time by executing a revocation at the embassy
• Keep a copy of the signed POA for your records
• For property transactions, the POA may need to be registered at the lands registry in Nigeria
• Some banks may require their own specific POA format

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• Fee Schedule
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