PROCEDURE FOR ATTESTATION OF CERTIFICATE IN NIGERIA
INTRODUCTION
The term ‘attestation of certificate’, ‘attestation of document’, ‘certification of document’ are often used interchangeably. However, a certified copy of a document is a photocopy of the ‘original document’, that has on it an endorsement that it is a true copy of the ‘original document’. It does not signify that the ‘original document’ is authentic, rather a prove, that it is a true copy of the ‘original document’. If result is included in the document you want to attest, then you have to pass through Ministry of Education before going to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ensure you have your results from O’level to the highest certificate you intend to attest with you. Attestation of document in Nigeria is a matter of required necessity for Nigerians travelling abroad.
PROCEDURE FOR ATTESTATION OF CERTIFICATE OR DOCUMENT IN NIGERIA
Before the attestation of a certificate or document, a Notary Public must first notarize such a document either personally or through a lawyers. This must be done before any authentication takes place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. However, attestation of a certificate or document is an essential part of the authentication process which will certify the genuity of your documents. Certifiable document includes; personal documents, educational documents and commercial documents.
CERTIFIED TRUE COPY OF A PRIMARY DOCUMENT
A certified true copy of a primary document is the certified if not the authenticated copy of the primary document. It may be signed, sealed and stamped.
Under Nigerian law, a document can be certified locally by applying and obtaining the Certified True Copy (CTC) from the authority that issued it. This is done by making an application to the issuing authority, either personally or through a solicitor, requesting for the CTC of such a document. The applicant shall pay the requisite fee for such certification. A good example is an application for a Certified True Copy (CTC) of a Court judgement.
THE NEED FOR ATTESTATION OF CERTIFICATE
Certificate attestation in Nigeria is a necessary requirement for immigration and emigration. It entails you are a legitimate person or company visiting or travelling out of Nigeria with no dangerous intentions. It evidences that your documents are true and can be allowed in the country.
COPIES OF DOCUMENTS THAT CAN BE CERTIFIED
letters from a hospital/doctor
letters from a government department
Degree certificate
Transcript
photocard driving licences
bank/building society or credit card statements
O’Level certificates and others.
AGENCIES RESPONSIBLE FOR ATTESTATION OF CERTIFICATE IN NIGERIA
Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Ministry of Education
PREPARED BY:
CHAMAN LAW FIRM TEAM
Email: chamanlawfirm.gmail.com
Tel: 08065553671, 08024200080