Marriage Dissolution in Nigeria

In this article, we would detail the regulatory regime and process for dissolving marriages in Nigeria. As an initial step, we will recommend that you seek legal advice after making the diffi- cult decision to divorce. This is because having an initial meeting with your lawyer will help you to understand your rights as to finances, property, children and general life after divorce.

There are several reasons and grounds for divorce in Nigeria, but regardless of the reason for wanting to end your marriage, the law states that the sole ground for divorce in Nigeria is that the “marriage has broken down irretrievably”, this means that the reason for wanting to dis- solve the marriage is so critical that the marriage can no longer be repaired. The Matrimonial Causes Act 1970 (the Act) and the Matrimonial Causes Rules 1983 are the primary laws that govern matrimonial causes such as divorce, annulment, legal separation, etc of marriage in Nigeria. The Act provides that the court with jurisdiction to hear and determine matrimonial causes is the High Court of any State of the Federation.