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Notary Services in Nigeria are anchored in a statutory framework that authorizes Notaries Public to authenticate signatures, administer oaths, and attest documents for use in Nigeria and abroad. A Notary Public is typically a practicing lawyer who has been commissioned to perform notarial acts by a judicial authority or designated body. The overarching purpose is to ensure the authenticity, integrity, and proper execution of legal instruments used in courts, business transactions and cross-border dealings.
Notarial acts in Nigeria must comply with established procedures to preserve their admissibility in legal proceedings and administrative processes. Notaries Public help reduce disputes about document execution, ensure identity verification, and provide sworn statements when required by law or the courts. This governance helps maintain confidence in documentary evidence across commercial, civil and administrative contexts.
Notaries Public in Nigeria authenticate signatures, administer oaths and attest to the execution of documents for use in Nigeria and abroad.
Source: Ministry of Justice and professional bodies involved in notarial practice (official sites such as justice.gov.ng and NBA resources).
Notarial work often intersects with complex regulatory and procedural requirements. The following real-world scenarios in Nigeria commonly require notarial legal assistance from a qualified lawyer notary.
1) Filing a property transaction with multiple parties - A deed of conveyance or transfer involving sellers, buyers, and banks often requires notarization of signatures and official attestation of the document. A lawyer-notary helps ensure proper execution, visibility of identity documents, and compliance with stamping and registration requirements.
2) Attesting affidavits for court proceedings - If you are a claimant or witness in a civil matter, an affidavit filed in court must be sworn and notarized. A legal professional can verify the affidavit’s contents, confirm the identity of the deponent, and ensure the oath is properly administered.
3) Certifying true copies of vital documents - Banks, schools, and government agencies often require certified true copies of birth certificates, passports, or title deeds. A Notary Public confirms that the copies are faithful reproductions of the originals and attaches the notarial certificate.
4) Drafting and attesting power of attorney - For business or personal arrangements, a power of attorney may authorize others to act on your behalf. A Notary ensures the document reflects the grantor’s intentions, validates signatures, and records the appointment properly.
5) Verifying corporate documents and board resolutions - Companies frequently need notarized resolutions, share transfer forms, or statutory declarations. A lawyer-notary ensures the documents meet corporate law requirements and are acceptable to regulatory bodies and financial institutions.
6) Notarizing documents for international use - If documents will be used abroad, a Notary’s attestation is often a prerequisite for further legalization by the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or foreign embassies. A lawyer-notary guides you through the chain of authentication and any destination-specific rules.
The principal framework for Notaries Public in Nigeria includes the Notaries Public Act along with related rules that govern appointment, authority, and duties of Notaries Public. The Act provides the basis for notarial acts, the kinds of documents that can be notarized, and the standards for identity verification and signature authentication. In addition, the Nigerian Evidence Act provides guidance on the admissibility and weight of notarized documents in court proceedings, particularly for sworn statements and affidavits.
For cross-border document use, the Nigerian authorities may require legalization by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the relevant embassy, depending on the destination country’s rules. The practice also interacts with corporate and property laws when documents affect rights and duties in Nigeria.
The Notaries Public Act and related rules regulate appointment, duties and the scope of notarial acts in Nigeria.
Sources: Ministry of Justice and Nigerian Bar Association resources; consult official sites for current text and amendments.
A Notary Public in Nigeria is a legally authorized lawyer who attests signatures, administers oaths, and certifies documents for official use. They prepare and certify notarial acts and affidavits used in courts or for administrative processes. A Notary’s primary role is to assure authenticity and integrity of documents.
Start with the Nigerian Bar Association directory or the judiciary’s referrals to licensed Notaries Public. You can also contact major banks or law firms that maintain notarial staff. Always verify the Notary’s current commission and license before proceeding.
Notary fees vary by state and service type; typical charges range from a few thousand naira to higher amounts for complex or urgent matters. Always request a written quote before proceeding and confirm any stamp duties or filing fees. Fees can differ between metropolitan and rural offices.
For a straightforward act such as attestation of a signature, the process can take same day or within 1-2 business days. More complex tasks involving multiple parties or cross-border requirements may take 3-7 days. Delays may occur if documents require additional verification or translation.
Presenting the document and valid identity is typically required. Some Notaries can handle certain preparations remotely, but the signatories must usually appear to attest signature. In urgent cases you may arrange for a third party to present documents, subject to the Notary’s rules.
Key documents include the deed of transfer or mortgage, title deeds, contract of sale, and sworn declarations. Notarization authenticates signatures and may be followed by stamp duties and land registry formalities. Banks and regulatory bodies often require notarization for funding and clearance.
A Notary Public is a lawyer authorized to perform notarial acts; a lawyer provides broader legal representation and counsel. Notarial acts focus on authentication, sworn statements, and attestation, while a lawyer handles litigation, advisory, and transactional work beyond notarial services. Both roles can involve legal advice, but Notaries do not replace standard legal representation.
Yes, Notaries commonly certify true copies of documents and affidavits. The Notary verifies the copy against the original and attaches a notarial certificate. Some institutions may require translations or additional attestations depending on use.
Yes, bring government-issued ID, current address, and any originals to verify against copies. If the document requires translation, consider bringing a certified translator or plan for approved translation services. ID helps prevent impersonation and ensures proper authentication.
Notarization is often a precondition for documents to be legalized for foreign use. The process typically requires legalisation by the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the destination country’s embassy. Check the specific country’s requirements early to avoid delays.
Translations may be required for clarity and admissibility in foreign or official contexts. A sworn translator or a certified translation service is commonly used. The Notary can attest to the authenticity of the translation if the translator signs and the translation is attached to the notarized document.
These resources help verify credentials, understand regulatory standards, and locate licensed Notaries Public in Nigeria. Always cross-check the most current statutes and practice rules on official sites before proceeding.
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The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
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