This is general information about notarisation in Nigeria, not legal advice. Requirements vary by receiving institution. Confirm what you need before proceeding.
If an embassy, university, bank, or foreign authority has asked for a “notarised” document and you are not sure what that means, this guide explains what a Notary Public does and when you need one.
What a Notary Public actually does
A Notary Public is a legal officer authorised to authenticate and certify documents so they can be trusted for official use, both within Nigeria and abroad. The notary confirms the identity of the person signing, witnesses the signature, and applies a notarial seal. The seal tells a foreign or third-party institution that the document was properly executed before a recognised officer.
Documents that commonly require notarisation
- Powers of attorney, especially where someone will act on your behalf in another country.
- Affidavits and sworn declarations intended for use abroad.
- Certified true copies of academic certificates, passports, and official records.
- Company and commercial documents: board resolutions, agreements, and authorisations for international transactions.
- Personal declarations for immigration, study, or employment overseas.
Notarisation is often only step one
For use in another country, notarisation frequently needs to be followed by further legalisation. Depending on the destination, that may mean an apostille or consular legalisation at the relevant ministry and embassy. Because Nigeria's position on these processes and the destination country's requirements both matter, always confirm the full chain the receiving institution expects before you begin; doing steps out of order can mean starting again.
When to consult a lawyer
Speak to a lawyer or notary early when a document is going abroad, when the wording carries legal consequences (as with a power of attorney), or when you are unsure which legalisation steps apply. Getting the drafting and the sequence right the first time avoids rejected documents, wasted fees, and missed deadlines.
Book a ConsultationThis article is provided for general information about Nigerian law and practice and does not constitute legal advice or create a lawyer-client relationship. Laws and procedures change and vary by state. You should obtain advice from a qualified legal practitioner about your specific circumstances before acting. Sam Onah & Associates accepts no responsibility for action taken in reliance on this general information.