Write a Letter of Attestation (Samples available): If you’ve been asked to submit a letter of attestation and you’re unsure how to proceed, don’t worry. This guide explains what an attestation letter is, why it’s important, who can write it, the different types available, and how to create one yourself with sample formats you can easily use.
This article will assist Nigerian students, parents, and job seekers in understanding how to write a standard attestation letter for admission, employment, immigration, scholarships, and even recruitment into the military or paramilitary.
What is a Letter of Attestation?
A letter of attestation is a formal letter that confirms the truth about a person, event, or document. It is typically written by someone who knows the individual well and can vouch for their character, behavior, or achievements. In simple terms, it expresses, “I know this person, and I can confirm that they are trustworthy or qualified.”
Why is a Letter of Attestation Important?
Institutions, companies, schools, and government bodies request attestation letters to verify an individual’s identity, character, or ability. It serves as legal proof that the person being attested to is exactly who they claim to be.
For example:
Universities request it to ensure that admitted students have good behavior.
Employers use it to confirm an employee’s integrity before making a job offer.
Embassies require it to support immigration applications.
Who Can Write a Letter of Attestation?
- A letter of attestation can be written by:
- A parent or guardian
- A religious leader (Pastor, Reverend Father, Imam, etc.)
- A traditional ruler or community leader
- A former employer
- A lawyer
- Any respected person in society who knows the individual well
In some cases, it can also come from a local government office, mosque, or church.
Types of Attestation Letters
There are different types of attestation letters depending on the purpose. Some of the common ones include:
- Letter of Attestation for Student Admission
- Letter of Attestation for Immigration
- A Letter of Attestation for Employment
- Letter of Attestation for Scholarship
- A Letter of Attestation for Contracts
- Letter of Attestation for Military/Paramilitary Recruitment (Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, NSCDC, etc.)
How to Write a Letter of Attestation
There isn’t a single official format for attestation letters, but they should always look formal. Follow these basic steps:
1. Write your address at the top left.
2. Add the date below your address.
3. Write the recipient’s address (e.g., The Registrar, The HR Manager, The Embassy).
4. Use a proper salutation (e.g., Dear Sir/Madam).
5. Add a subject line (e.g., Letter of Attestation).
6. In the body of the letter:
– Introduce yourself and your relationship with the person.
– Confirm the person’s character, skills, or integrity.
– Assure the recipient that the person can be trusted.
7. End with a conclusion (e.g., I recommend him/her without reservation).
8. Add your signature, full name, and contact details.
Sample: Letter of Attestation for Student Admission
Sponsored by: Campusinformant.com.ng
No. 11 Osogeme Street,
Igbo South,
Anambra State.
12th July, 2021.
Admission Unit,
The Registrar,
University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Dear Sir,
LETTER OF ATTESTATION
I hereby confirm that Mr./Miss ………………… is my son/daughter who has gained admission into the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
He or She is humble, obedient, trustworthy, God-fearing, and very hardworking. I have no doubt he or she will make the institution and the department proud.
I also take full responsibility for all financial obligations regarding his/her education. Furthermore, he/she will live peacefully within the school environment and be a positive influence.
I strongly recommend him or her for acceptance.
Thank you.
Yours faithfully,
Mr./Mrs. …………………
Tel: 09123456789
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Letters of Attestation
1. What is the difference between a letter of attestation and a recommendation letter?
A recommendation letter focuses on a person’s qualifications and achievements, while an attestation letter confirms their character, identity, or behavior.
2. Can I write my own attestation letter?
No. A letter of attestation must be written by someone else (e.g., parent, employer, religious leader, or community head) who can vouch for you.
3. Is a letter of attestation the same as an affidavit?
No. An affidavit is a legal declaration sworn in court, while an attestation letter is a formal confirmation written by a trusted person.
4. Who can sign a letter of attestation for university admission?
Usually, parents/guardians, religious leaders, or community leaders are accepted by most Nigerian universities.
5. Can I submit a typed letter of attestation, or must it be handwritten?
Both are acceptable. However, a neatly typed and signed letter is more professional and widely preferred.
6. Do I need to notarize a letter of attestation?
In most cases, no. But for immigration or international purposes, notarization or legal stamping may be required.
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