It was one of those days when you realize experience is truly the best teacher. I had just left a strategy session with a client when my friend, Ope, called me in a panic.
“Bro, dem wan collect my land o! Dem say my documents no complete!”
I sighed. Another day, another land wahala.
Ope had bought land two years ago. They gave him a receipt and a “deed of assignment.” He thought he was good to go. Fast forward to today, developers are moving in, and suddenly, someone else claims ownership.
If you’ve ever had to deal with land issues in Nigeria, you already know how messy it can get. Buying land without the right land documentation is like walking into a fire with a keg of petrol.
But let’s break it down properly. If you’re planning to buy land or you already own one, here are the documents you must have to avoid stories that touch.
Why Land Documentation is a Big Deal
Land ownership is a critical asset class, especially for real estate investors, businesses, and homebuyers looking for sustainable wealth creation. However, land transactions in Nigeria are notorious for being complicated, fraudulent, and full of legal loopholes.
From land grabbers (omo onile) to government acquisitions and double sales, many people have lost millions simply because they didn’t have the right documents.
According to the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), over 70% of land disputes in Nigeria arise from improper documentation.
In fact, you may already know someone currently fighting a land case in court or someone who bought land that was eventually reclaimed by the government. These problems are avoidable if you do your due diligence.
The Essential Land Documents You Must Have
To secure your land investment, you need at least one or a combination of these documents:
Deed of Assignment
Deed of Assignment
This is the legal document that transfers ownership of the land from the seller to the buyer. It serves as proof that the land has been officially transferred to you, providing essential legal protection. Without it, you cannot assert ownership rights in any legal situation, which can lead to disputes down the line.
👉 If a seller refuses to provide this document, it is a major red flag. 🚩🚩🚩 In Nigeria, the cost of obtaining a Deed of Assignment can range from ₦100,000 to ₦500,000, depending on the property’s value and location.
Survey Plan
Survey Plan
This document helps you identify the exact location and size of the land, as well as whether the property falls under government acquisition. Many people have purchased lands within government-reserved areas and only discovered the issue when demolition began. It’s crucial for knowing the boundaries of your property and any potential encumbrances.
👉 Always confirm the land’s status with the Surveyor General’s office. A typical survey can cost between ₦300,000 to ₦2,000,000, depending on the complexity and location of the land.
Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
This document shows that the government recognizes you as the legal owner of the land. It provides security of tenure and is essential for obtaining loans, permits, and further development. Without it, the land technically belongs to the government, putting you at risk of losing your investment.
👉 If your land does not have a C of O, ensure it has at least an Excision or Gazette. The processing fee for obtaining a C of O can vary widely, typically ranging from ₦500,000 to over ₦10,000,000, depending on the property size and location, along with other administrative fees.
Governor’s Consent
Governor’s Consent
If you are buying land from someone who already has a C of O, you will need a Governor’s Consent to validate the transfer. This document makes your ownership official under the Land Use Act of 1978. It is important to ensure that all legal processes are properly followed to avoid future disputes over land ownership.
👉 Without it, you risk someone else claiming ownership of your land. The cost for obtaining the Governor’s consent can range from ₦30,000 to ₦2,000,000, depending on the value of the property.
Excision & Gazette
Excision & Gazette
Some lands are under government acquisition. Before they can be sold, they must be “excised,” meaning the government has released them for private ownership. When excision is granted, it is published in the government Gazette, serving as official confirmation of the land’s status.
👉 If your land does not have an Excision or a Gazette, the government still owns it, and you could be facing significant risks. The costs involved in obtaining Excision and publication in the Gazette can be substantial, often ranging from ₦500,000 to ₦5,000,000, depending on various factors, including the size of the land and the specificity of the application process.
Understanding these documents and their costs is crucial in making informed decisions when purchasing land in Nigeria.
How to Avoid Land Documentation Issues
Buying land is one of the biggest investments you can make. Here’s how to ensure you don’t lose your hard-earned money:
1. Verify Every Document Before Payment
Never take a seller’s word for it. Engage a professional lawyer and surveyor to confirm the land’s legal status.
2. Avoid “Too Good to Be True” Deals
Cheap land can be expensive trouble. If someone is selling land at half the market price, ask why. You might be buying problem.
3. Buy From Trusted Real Estate Companies
When you buy from a reputable real estate company, you minimize the risks. They handle documentation, processing, and legalities for you.
4. Process Your Land Title Immediately
Don’t wait. If your land doesn’t have a C of O, start processing one immediately to avoid future problems.
The Best Real Estate Investments with Guaranteed Documentation
If you’re looking for safe and legally verified real estate investments, I offer:
- Lands from ₦500k to ₦40 million, with solid titles like C of O, Governor’s Consent, Gazette, and Excision.
- Real estate investment plans with 30%-50% ROI in 12 months.
- Houses and commercial properties, from off-plan projects with payment plans to fully built properties.
Real estate should be stress-free, and that’s exactly what I provide.
Ready to Invest? Let’s Talk.
If you’re serious about owning or investing in real estate, let’s connect:
📩 WhatsApp: wa.me/2348134273672
📌 Instagram: instagram.com/thecommissioneroflagos 📌 Twitter: x.com/nelsonchinons12 📌 Facebook: facebook.com/chinonso.nelson.31 📌 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chinonso-nelson-858811139
www.chinonsonelson.com/contact-chinonso
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