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Browse our 13 legal questions about Marriage in Nigeria and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
Marriage law in Apapa, Nigeria, falls under the broader scope of Family Law in Nigeria. It consists of two widely recognized and upheld forms of marriage: statutory (civil) marriage and customary marriage, which includes Islamic marriages. Statutory marriages are governed by the Marriage Act and Matrimonial Causes Act while the customary marriages are regulated by customary laws of Nigeria.
Whether it's for drafting a prenup agreement, understanding the implications of matrimonial properties, or navigating the complexities of divorce proceedings, a lawyer will provide invaluable help. Misunderstandings over the rights and responsibilities of each spouse can lead to legal complications. In cases of spousal abuse or disputes regarding child custody, immediate legal intervention is needed.
The Federal Republic of Nigeria governs the marital affairs of its citizen through the Marriage Act for statutory marriages and customary law/Islamic law for customary marriages. The Marriage Act requires mandatory registration at a licensed place of worship or the registry office. Customary marriage has rules often specific to the ethnicity of the parties involved, and its nature varies widely across tribes and locality. Both forms recognize monogamy and polygamy, but bigamy is a punishable offence under the Nigerian penal code.
The legal age for marriage in Nigeria is 18 years for both males and females.
Yes, foreigners can marry in Nigeria, but they must each obtain a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry from their respective embassies.
A divorce can be granted in Nigeria if the marriage has broken down irretrievably.
The process for divorce involves petitioning the court, stating the grounds for divorce. The petitioner must prove that the marriage has indeed broken down irretrievably.
While not popular, prenuptial agreements are legal in Nigeria.
You can find valuable information and guidance from resources like the Nigerian Law School, Nigerian Bar Association and Federal Ministry of Justice. Nongovernmental organizations like Women’s Rights and Health Project and Marriage Registry Department of Nigeria also provide support and assistance regarding marriage issues.
If you require legal assistance, it's wise to consult with a legal professional who is well versed in Nigerian marriage laws. Begin by documenting your issue clearly, then seek referrals or a lawyer who specializes in family law. Don’t hesitate to ask for guidance from family, friends, or trusted organizations who have experience in these matters. Encryption:
