Confirming Court Weddings: Nigeria's Legal Union Process

Court weddings in Nigeria are officially recognised by the Federal Government as proof of a marriage contract between a couple. This is a straightforward process, but there are several steps to follow to ensure your marriage is legal. This includes visiting a marriage registry, obtaining a Notice Form or Form A, and submitting two coloured passport photographs. The form will then be posted on the Notice board at the registry for 21 days, after which a prescribed fee must be paid. Once the criteria are met, the registrar will issue a Form C, and the couple can choose a wedding date within three months. On the wedding day, the registrar will print the marriage certificates, and the couple will receive one original copy.

Court weddings are legally recognised by the Nigerian government

According to the Marriage Act, Chapter 218 of the Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990, court weddings are legally recognised as proof of a marriage contract between a couple. This means that couples who choose to marry in a courthouse will have the same legal rights and protections as those who opt for a traditional or religious ceremony.

The process of having a court wedding in Nigeria is relatively simple. Couples must first visit a marriage registry to signify their intention to marry. They will be required to fill out a Notice Form or Form A, providing details such as their names, ages, addresses, occupations, and marital status. Along with the form, two coloured passport photographs must be submitted. The notice will then be posted on the registry's notice board for 21 days and entered into the Marriage Notice Book, which can be inspected during office hours free of charge.

Once the notice period has expired, the couple will need to pay a prescribed fee, which may vary depending on the registry. The registrar will then issue a Form C once the couple has met the necessary criteria, which include age and residency requirements, as well as providing written consent from the bride-to-be's parent or legal guardian if she is under 21 years old.

On the wedding day, the couple will finalise the marriage in a short ceremony, usually lasting around 30 minutes, in the presence of their family members and friends. The marriage certificates will be printed in duplicate, and the spouses will receive one copy while the other is sent to the local Registry Office.

Court weddings offer several benefits to couples, including cost savings, reduced stress, legal security, and flexibility in terms of dress code and guest list. The legal recognition of court weddings in Nigeria ensures that couples can enjoy the same rights and protections as those who choose more traditional or religious ceremonies.

There are two types of court weddings in Nigeria

Court weddings, also known as civil marriages, are a legal ceremony conducted by a government authority such as a marriage registrar. In Nigeria, court weddings are under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Interior and are protected under the Marriage Act, Chapter 218 of the Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 1990.

There are two types of court marriages in Nigeria:

Ordinary marriage

This is a marriage between two Nigerians.

Special marriage

This is a marriage between a Nigerian and a non-Nigerian or between two non-Nigerians intending to marry in the country.

Court weddings are usually done in marriage registries. There are two types of registries in Nigeria:

Federal Marriage Registry

This includes the Ikoyi registry in Lagos state, which covers residents in the South-West, South-South and South-East, and the Wuse 2 registry in Abuja, which covers all residents in Northern Nigeria.

Local Government Marriage Registry

These registries can be found in each local council across states in Nigeria.

Steps to getting married in a Nigerian court

• Declare your intention to marry: Visit the marriage registry and give notice of your intention to marry. The registrar will issue you a Notice Form or Form A, which you must fill in with details such as name, age, occupation and marital status.
• Submit the form: Return the form to the registrar along with two coloured passport photographs.
• Notice is entered into the Marriage Notice Book: The registrar enters your Notice into the Marriage Notice book, and a copy of the Notice form is posted on the registry’s notice board for 21 days. This acts as a caveat or warning period, giving people aware of the intended marriage a chance to raise objections.
• Pay the set fee and swear an affidavit: Once the 21 days expire, you must pay a prescribed fee (usually under ₦25,000) for the marriage certificate. You are also required to swear an affidavit confirming that:

• You and your partner are over 21 years old. If either party is under 21, written parental consent must be attached to the affidavit.
• You or your partner have lived in the district where the marriage will be held for at least 15 days.
• There are no situations that can serve as a hindrance to the wedding.
• Neither you nor your partner are customarily married to a different person.

• Forms C and D are issued: Once the above requirements have been met, the marriage registrar gives you a Form C that confirms compliance with the needs and that there are no lawful hindrances to the intended wedding. Following this, Form D is issued, giving you the authority to celebrate your wedding.
• Wedding day: According to Section 12 of the Marriage Act, the wedding must be held within 3 months by the registrar or in an authorised place of worship. On the wedding day, two witnesses must be present, and the ceremony must be conducted between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. The officiating officer (the registrar or a recognised clergyman) will present Form E, also known as the marriage certificate, which will contain details such as the date of the marriage, the names of the parties and witnesses, and the certificate number.
• Registration of the marriage certificate: The final step is to file your marriage certificate in the Marriage Register Book.

Court weddings in Nigeria offer a more convenient, cost-effective and legally secure way to get married, without having to go through religious or traditional processes.

Court weddings are affordable

Court weddings are a popular option for couples looking to save money and keep their wedding low-key. In Nigeria, registering a marriage in court costs just N2,000, compared to around N200,000 for a traditional wedding. This is a huge saving and means you can keep the event within a smaller budget.

In other countries, the cost of a courthouse wedding varies by state, county, and municipal jurisdiction. In the US, for example, you could pay anywhere from $30 to $88, with basic fees for a courthouse wedding usually topping out at around $120. There are additional fees for things like securing certain spaces where guests are allowed or bringing your own officiant.

Regardless of location, courthouse weddings are a very affordable option for couples. They are also less stressful than a large wedding, as they are small events with only a few close family members and friends in attendance. This means less pressure to please everyone and more options for a smaller, more intimate reception.

With a court wedding, you also have the freedom to wear whatever you like, without the expense of a traditional wedding outfit. This means you can express your own style and choose an outfit that you can wear again, saving you even more money.

So, if you're looking for a budget-friendly, stress-free option for your wedding, a court wedding is a great choice.

They are less stressful than traditional weddings

Why Court Weddings Are Less Stressful Than Traditional Weddings

Court weddings in Nigeria are a popular alternative to traditional weddings, and for good reason. Here are some of the ways in which they are less stressful:

Smaller Guest List

One of the most significant advantages of a court wedding is that it can be a small, intimate affair. Planning a large wedding with a long guest list can be overwhelming, especially when you feel pressured to please everyone. With a court wedding, you only need to invite a few close family members and friends. This reduces the stress of managing a large guest list and allows you to focus on celebrating your special day with your nearest and dearest.

Less Planning and Fewer Details

Court weddings are often chosen because they require less planning and attention to detail compared to traditional weddings. The registry office or courthouse handles most of the logistics, and there is no need to worry about extensive decorations, entertainment, or catering. This streamlined process can save you time, energy, and potential arguments with your partner or family members.

Reduced Financial Burden

Court weddings are significantly more affordable than traditional weddings. Registering a marriage in court costs a fraction of the amount spent on a traditional wedding, even on a small scale. This financial aspect alone can reduce stress levels, as you don't have to worry about budgeting for a lavish event or incurring debt. The money saved can be allocated to other important aspects of your new life together, such as a down payment on a home or a honeymoon.

No Dress Code Constraints

Court weddings offer flexibility when it comes to attire. There are no strict dress codes, so you can wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and expresses your personal style. This can be a huge stress reliever, especially for brides who may feel pressured to wear a traditional white gown. With a court wedding, you have the freedom to choose an outfit that suits your personality and budget, and you may even opt for something you can wear again.

Time Efficiency

Court weddings are known for their efficiency, typically lasting around 30 minutes. Unlike traditional weddings, there are no lengthy ceremonies, sermons, or songs. This time efficiency means you can allocate more time and energy to your reception, where you can celebrate with your loved ones without the formality and rigidity of a traditional wedding ceremony.

Legal Recognition and Security

Court weddings provide legal recognition and security for your marriage. They are recognised by the Federal Government of Nigeria and protected under the Marriage Act. This legal protection offers peace of mind, especially for women, as it safeguards against practices like bigamy, which is punishable by law. Knowing that your marriage is legally binding and recognised can reduce stress and provide a sense of security for your future together.

There is no dress code for court weddings

Couples can wear comfortable clothing that isn't a traditional white wedding gown. There is also the opportunity to buy an outfit that can be worn again.

While there is no dress code, there are some restrictions on what can be worn. For example, short sleeves, shorts, and jeans are not allowed.

• Formal short and knee-length fitted gowns accessorized with bridal hats and monochrome white looks.
• Sexy and sleek bridal jumpsuits.
• Chic minimalist pencil dresses.
• Cocktail dresses and dressy jumpsuits.
• All-white court wedding gowns accessorized with netted hats.
• Trouser suits.
• Short or knee-length gowns.
• Maxi gowns.
• Peplum-top dresses.

Frequently asked questions