Land in Nigeria is expensive, emotional—and often messy. Before you send even ₦10,000 to a seller, you must understand the documents behind the deal. Why? Because thousands of people lose millions yearly due to fake or incomplete paperwork.
This post breaks down the 6 essential land documents you should always check before buying. Whether you’re buying in Abuja, Ibadan, or Anambra, these docs are your legal lifeline.
📑 Table of Contents
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Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
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Deed of Assignment
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Survey Plan
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Excision Document
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Governor’s Consent
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Deed of Lease
Final Checklist
My Take
1. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
This is the holy grail of land ownership in Nigeria. Issued by the government, it legally certifies that you own the land and can use it for 99 years.
Why It Matters: No C of O? You may be buying bush.
2. Deed of Assignment
This is the document that transfers ownership from seller to buyer.
Look out for:
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Signatures of both parties
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Description of the land
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Stamp duty & registration
💡 Always register your deed at the Land Registry to avoid future disputes.
3. Survey Plan
A survey plan shows the exact location and size of the land.
Why It Matters:
It helps you confirm the land is not under government acquisition or overlapping someone else’s plot.
✅ Tip: Verify with Surveyor General’s office.
4. Excision Document
This applies mostly to lands in Lagos. It’s proof that the government has released the land back to the community.
Why It Matters:
If there’s no excision, your land might be seized.
5. Governor’s Consent
This is required when land with a C of O is being transferred. No consent? The sale is incomplete.
⚠️ It’s one of the most overlooked but important documents.
6. Deed of Lease
In some government allocations (e.g., Abuja or military zones), you’re issued a lease document instead of a deed of assignment.
Duration: Often 99 years with terms for renewal.
✅ Final Checklist Before You Pay
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✅ Verify title documents with the Land Registry
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✅ Hire a real estate lawyer
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✅ Ask for receipts, IDs, and original papers
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✅ Avoid “family land” without proof
💬 My Take
Too many people buy land on vibes and prayers. That’s how you get duped. A real estate deal in Nigeria is only real when the paperwork is. Don’t cut corners—verify everything, register your title, and always use a lawyer.
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