NPC Launches Consultation for Unified Marriage Registration

The National Population Commission (NPC) has begun efforts to harmonize marriage and divorce registration in Nigeria through the North-East Zonal Consultation on the Draft Harmonized Protocol for Marriage and Divorce Registration. This consultation took place at the City Green Hotel in Yola, Adamawa State, and involved stakeholders from the six states of the North-East geopolitical zone over two days.

Hon. (Mrs.) Mary Ishaya Afan, the Commissioner Overseeing the Chairman’s Office of the NPC, represented by Mr. Teniola Caxton, emphasized the importance of marriage and divorce as legal acts that create significant rights and obligations. She noted that proper registration is essential for protecting rights related to spousal support, child custody, and inheritance.

The NPC aims to establish common procedures and strengthen data management within the electronic Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) system. The Draft Harmonized Protocol was developed in collaboration with stakeholders during a national workshop in July 2025.