Document background
A Gift Affidavit is essential in Nigerian legal practice for documenting and formalizing gratuitous transfers of property or assets. This document is particularly important in a jurisdiction like Nigeria, where multiple legal systems (common law, customary law, and Islamic law) may apply to property transfers. The affidavit serves multiple purposes: it provides clear evidence of the donor's intention to make the gift, confirms the voluntary nature of the transfer, and helps prevent future disputes about the ownership of the gifted property. It is commonly used in family arrangements, charitable donations, and estate planning. The document must comply with the Evidence Act 2011 and other relevant Nigerian legislation, and typically requires attestation by a Commissioner for Oaths. Depending on the nature and value of the gift, additional requirements such as stamping, registration, or specific customary law compliance may be necessary.
