5 Things to Consider Before Buying Land in Nigeria

Buying land in Nigeria is one of the most significant financial decisions you will ever make. The potential for long-term wealth creation is enormous — but so is the risk of falling victim to fraudulent deals, disputed titles, and government acquisitions. Here are five critical things every buyer must verify before signing anything.

1. Verify the Title Document

The most important step is confirming the authenticity and validity of the land title. In Nigeria, the gold standard is a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) issued by the state government. Other documents like a Deed of Assignment, Governor's Consent, or Gazette each carry different legal weight. A C of O or registered Deed of Assignment confirmed at the State Land Registry is what you want. Always conduct a search at the relevant land registry to confirm the document on file matches what the seller presents.

2. Confirm Government Acquisition Status

Every year, buyers lose money on land that was quietly acquired by the government for road expansion, rail corridors, or public infrastructure. Before paying, visit the Surveyor-General's office or hire a licensed surveyor to check whether the plot falls within any government acquisition or committed area. This single check has saved countless buyers from total loss.

3. Check for Encumbrances and Court Orders

A land parcel can be pledged as collateral for a loan, subject to a court injunction, or tied up in a family inheritance dispute — and the seller may not disclose this. A search at the Probate Registry, the land registry, and the relevant court registry will surface liens, cautions, and legal holds. You do not want to buy land and then have a bank or court knock on your door.

4. Engage a Licensed Surveyor

Survey plans define the physical boundaries of your land. Ensure the survey plan matches the physical site visit. A licensed surveyor will confirm coordinates, check that the beacon numbers align with the plan, and verify that neighbouring plots have not encroached. In areas where land is carved out of a larger estate, confirm the subdivision plan has been duly registered.

5. Involve a Real Estate Lawyer and a Trusted Advisor

Never rely solely on the seller's lawyer. Engage your own independent legal counsel to review all transaction documents and conduct the registry searches. A qualified real estate consultant or advisory firm like Moonstar Comfort Homes can coordinate the entire due diligence process — from document verification to site visits — so you can invest with full confidence.