The National Registration Bureau (NRB) has officially assumed responsibility for the administration and registration of marriages and divorces following amendments to the Marriage, Divorce and Family Relations Act. The development marks a significant shift in the management of civil status records in the country.
In a statement released on 12 February 2026, the NRB confirmed that the mandate has been transferred from the Department of the Registrar General to the bureau. This transfer formalizes the bureau’s expanded role in overseeing marriage and divorce matters.
As part of the changes, the NRB Director has been designated as Registrar of Marriages.
This appointment places the authority for marriage registration and oversight directly under the bureau’s leadership.
The NRB stated that all marriage-related functions previously handled by the Registrar General will now fall under its jurisdiction.
This includes administrative supervision and regulatory responsibilities tied to marriage processes.
Among the key functions now managed by the NRB is the oversight of marriage officiation. The bureau will ensure that all ceremonies are conducted in accordance with the law and established guidelines.
The NRB will also be responsible for issuing legal marriage certificates for all types of marriages. This ensures a centralized system for documentation and certification.
In addition, the bureau will handle all marriage registration processes. Couples will be required to follow procedures administered directly by the NRB for official recognition of their unions.
Civil marriages will continue to be conducted at District Council offices, while religious ceremonies will take place at licensed places of worship, maintaining existing arrangements for venues despite the administrative transition.
