7 Land Documents You Must Understand Before Buying Property in Nigeria

Buying Land in Nigeria? Don’t Skip This.

So, you’ve found a piece of land in Lagos or Ogun that you love — price looks right, location is perfect. But before you pay a single naira, there’s something more important you need to understand: land documents.

Many real estate scams happen because buyers don’t know the difference between a survey plan and a C of O. That ends today.

In this guide, we’ll break down the 7 most important land documents in Nigeria — what they mean, when to request them, and how to avoid land fraud.

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1. Survey Plan

This shows the exact location and size of the land. It includes coordinates, boundaries, and who surveyed the land.

✅ Always ask to see the survey plan and check that it’s registered with the Office of the Surveyor-General in the state.

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2. Deed of Assignment

This is proof that the current seller has rights to transfer the property to you. It must be signed by both parties and registered at the Land Registry.

🧠 Tip: If the seller cannot provide a deed of assignment, walk away.

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3. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)

This is one of the most powerful land documents in Nigeria. It’s issued by the state government and proves that the land has been legally allocated or transferred.

🎯 If you’re buying land for serious development or resale, look for plots with a C of O.

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4. Excision

Many lands on the outskirts of Lagos and Ogun are under “government acquisition.” Excision means the government has officially released that portion of land to the community.

👉 If the land you want is excision in process, be cautious. Only pay after proper verification.

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5. Gazette

This is the government’s official publication showing that excised land is now free for individual ownership.

🧾 Always verify Gazette land at the state land bureau.

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6. Registered Title

This shows that the land has been registered and has a title number at the Land Registry. It’s easier to trace and harder to fake.

💼 Ideal for diaspora investors or anyone doing serious real estate.

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7. Receipt & Contract of Sale

It might sound basic, but your receipt and contract of sale are essential. They should include seller details, land details, and agreed price.

🛡️ Always use a lawyer or trusted real estate company for documentation.

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⚠️ Avoiding Land Scams in 2025

A fancy brochure is not a land document. Before you buy any property, ask for these 7 documents. And verify them with your own eyes — don’t rely on what you’re told.

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🏡 Did You Know?

We have land for sale with verified documents in these hot locations:

• Diaspora Villa – Itiri, Owode: ₦2.4M – comes with survey & deed

• Patmos Estate – Lapoti, near Agbara: ₦1.5M – fully documented

• Peace Assurance – Itiri, Owode: ₦900K – secure & accessible

Want to see them?
👉

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🧠 My Take

Documents are not just paperwork — they’re your legal security. If you don’t understand what you’re buying, you’re handing over your money to risk.

Be smart, stay informed, and only buy from sources you can trust.