We pay so much attention to planning our wedding engagement and reception, forgetting probably the most important affair when it comes to getting married the REGISTRY. Only the married certificate received during the court wedding makes you legally married. The two Federal Marriage Registries we have Nigeria at the moment are: Federal Marriage Registry Abuja and Federal Marriage Registry Ikoyi Lagos.
They are both under the Ministry of Interior. However, Ikoyi Registry is the most recognized.
Here are five important details about Ikoyi Marriage Registry.
1. What happens at the Registry each day of the week
Oath swearing happens usually on Tuesdays, while Wednesdays to Fridays are for contracting marriages.
2. Requirements
- Two passports photograph from both the bride and the groom
- Photocopy of birth certificate or age declaration for both groom and bride
- Sworn affidavit for current marital status.
3. Fee
The regular fee is N31,000. However, this excludes other sur-charges like photography, give aways e.t.c that you may encounter on the day of the event.
4. Fill forms procedure
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- Obtain and fill out form called “NOTICE OF MARRIAGE”.
NOTE: Ensure names are boldly written, surnames underlined and passport photographs attached. A fee will be charged on submission of this form. - Return to the registry after 21 days with already filled forms. Another set of forms would be giving “AFFIDAVIT ON APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE”. Attach a copy of both of your “Birth Certificate” when submitting this form. Paraventure your birth certificate is not available, a “Declaration of Age” can be attached instead.
- Next, you fill the ‘Certificate of Bachelorhood/Spinsterhood’.
- Obtain and fill out form called “NOTICE OF MARRIAGE”.
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- If one or both couple had children before this marriage, an “Affidavit” should also be presented stating the number of children. This is to encourage transparency.
On completion of these forms, a date for your interview is set.
5. On- the day requirements
REQUIREMENTS:
- Notify the registry of your preferred wedding date
- Present two witnesses from both bride and groom
- Present two rings and a Bible/Quran
Dress Code:
The dress code is formal. No Casuals- Short sleeves, shorts and jeans are not allowed. You are to appear in either corporate or traditional attires.
Get to the registry as early as possible on your given date with your witnesses so you don’t miss your own wedding. The process most times is very fast. After you’ve completed the above requirement, your oath taking ceremony takes place, and you’re married!!! Click on this link to know 3 secrets about getting married at Ikoyi registry.
After your marriage registry it’s time to start planning for the big event, visit www.palmfront.com to manage a gift registry, create a wedding website and manage a free cloud album.