How to Change Name with Deed Poll in Nigeria

How to Change Name with Deed Poll in Nigeria

Quick answer: A deed poll is a formal document used to record that a person has adopted a new name. In Nigeria, the process commonly involves preparing the deed poll, supporting it with identification, making any required affidavit or publication, and updating official records.

This article is public legal education. Requirements may differ depending on the purpose of the name change, the institution involved, and the records to be updated.

Common reasons for name change

• Marriage, divorce, or family-related change.
• Correction or standardisation of names across official records.
• Religious, personal, or professional reasons.
• Need to align bank, passport, school, employment, or property records.

General documents to prepare

• Valid identification and existing records showing the former name.
• Draft deed poll prepared in the correct form.
• Affidavit or declaration where required.
• Newspaper publication or gazette-related step where required by the receiving institution.
• Evidence needed by banks, schools, immigration authorities, employers, or land registries.

Why legal review matters

A name change can affect bank records, land documents, company records, immigration files, academic certificates, and family records. Legal review helps avoid inconsistent documents and future verification problems.

When to speak with a lawyer

For deed poll drafting, affidavits, notarisation, and record update support, see Notary Public or book a consultation.