Expert Info

Posted by
on 21 Nov 2012
How much control does a parent have in the decison of a child and who they marry in nigeria...and does the child have to obey the parent's decision on who they date or marry If not what will happen to that child?

Can a muslim man marry a non muslim in Nigeria ?
Anonymous (not verified) on 21 Nov 2012 - 06:52
Hi Sharon,

There are parts of Nigeria that are strictly Muslim and follow Sharia law so an interfaith marriage in these regions may be problematic. Sharia law prohibits marriage between a muslim man and a pagan but it possible for him to marry a christian. On the other hand, a muslim women is not allowed to marry a non muslim under Sharia law.

For more detailed information on marriage in Nigeria, I recommend you have a read of this page.  

However, in the more cosmoplitan cities like Abuja it shouldn't be too much of an issue.

On your concerns about parental approval - legally getting parental consent for marriage won't be necessary unless one of the parties is under 21 years old.

You should read the Expat Arrival's page on Culture Shock in Nigeria to get a good overview about cultural issues within the country.

Hope this makes everything a bit clearer for you. 

Anonymous (not verified) on 22 Nov 2012 - 03:43
Why is a nigerian choses an higher education over loving a woman. Is this normal to put education first and your relatioship valued second
Anonymous (not verified) on 27 Feb 2013 - 16:21
Hi i got a job in DAG Motercycle industries Nigeria limited company. Company located in Lagos, somany here lot of people saying there is no safety for life, so i want know it's or not? Please give me advice.