How to Cite Nigerian Constitution: A Complete Guide

If you're a student, lawyer, or researcher working with Nigerian law, citing the Nigerian Constitution is a crucial skill to have. Accurately citing the constitution in your work not only adds credibility to your research but also helps to avoid plagiarism. However, citing the Nigerian Constitution can be a little tricky for those who are new to the process. In this guide, we will take you through the steps of how to correctly cite the Nigerian Constitution.

What is the Nigerian Constitution?

The Nigerian Constitution is the supreme law governing the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It provides the framework for the organization of the Nigerian government, establishes the rights and duties of Nigerian citizens, and defines the relationship between the government and the people.

Why is citing the Nigerian Constitution important?

Citing the Nigerian Constitution in your research provides evidence that you have done thorough research and have used appropriate sources. Proper citation also ensures that you do not infringe on copyright laws or commit plagiarism.

How to cite Nigerian Constitution

Citing the Nigerian Constitution can be done in two ways, depending on the referencing style you are using. The two most commonly used referencing styles are APA and MLA.

APA Style

APA style is commonly used in social sciences such as psychology, sociology, and education. To cite the Nigerian Constitution in APA style, you need to follow the format below:

In-text Citation: (Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999)
Reference List: Federal Republic of Nigeria. (1999). Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Retrieved from [insert URL here].

MLA Style

MLA style is commonly used in humanities subjects such as literature, philosophy, and history. To cite the Nigerian Constitution in MLA style, you need to follow the format below:

In-text Citation: (Federal Republic of Nigeria Art. 3)
Works Cited: Federal Republic of Nigeria. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Government Printer, 1999.

Tips for citing Nigerian Constitution

Always check the referencing style guide you are using to confirm the specific format for citing the Nigerian Constitution.
When citing the Nigerian Constitution, include the year of the constitution and the section or article number you are citing.
Use the official title of the Nigerian Constitution when citing it.
Include the source of the Nigerian Constitution, which is the Government Printer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the official title of the Nigerian Constitution?
The official title of the Nigerian Constitution is "Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria."
Can I cite the Nigerian Constitution without referencing a specific section or article?
No, it is essential to include the section or article number when citing the Nigerian Constitution.
Can I use footnotes to cite the Nigerian Constitution?
Yes, you can use footnotes to cite the Nigerian Constitution. Just ensure you follow the referencing style guide you are using.
Is it necessary to include the year of the constitution when citing the Nigerian Constitution?
Yes, the year of the constitution is crucial as it helps to differentiate between different versions of the Nigerian Constitution.
Can I use an online version of the Nigerian Constitution for my citation?
Yes, you can use online versions of the Nigerian Constitution as long as you cite the source correctly. Ensure the source is reliable and official, such as the Government Printer.

Conclusion

Citing the Nigerian Constitution is an important skill for anyone working with Nigerian law. Accurately citing the constitution in your work not only adds credibility to your research but also helps to avoid plagiarism. Remember to check the referencing style guide you are using and follow the specific format for citing the Nigerian Constitution. With these tips and tricks, you can accurately cite the Nigerian Constitution and produce high-quality research.