What title documents should I ask for when buying land in Nigeria?
At minimum: Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) or Right of Occupancy (R of O in Abuja), all Deeds of Assignment in the ownership chain, Governor's Consent where applicable, and a Survey Plan showing Beacon Numbers. For Lagos, the Lagos State Lands Bureau is the verification authority.
Is it safe to buy land in Ibeju-Lekki?
Ibeju-Lekki has legitimate high-growth land investment potential — anchored by the Dangote Refinery, Lekki Free Trade Zone, and the Deep Sea Port. However, the corridor also has a complex title history with community land, excised land, and overlapping claims. Always insist on C of O from the Lagos State Lands Bureau and engage a solicitor and registered surveyor before any purchase.
What is the difference between C of O and Governor's Consent?
A Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is issued by a state governor and grants a statutory right of occupancy for land. Governor's Consent is the approval required each time that land changes hands — it legally perfects every subsequent transaction under Nigeria's Land Use Act.
Can foreigners buy land in Nigeria?
Under Nigeria's Land Use Act, land cannot technically be 'owned' outright — all land is vested in state governors. Foreigners can hold a Right of Occupancy but face restrictions on agricultural land acquisition. Corporate entities registered in Nigeria can hold land. Professional legal advice specific to your situation is strongly recommended.
How much does land cost in Lagos?
Lagos land prices vary enormously by location. Banana Island (Ikoyi) is among the most expensive in Africa — plots rarely available below ₦500m. Lekki Phase 1 plots sell from ₦50m–₦200m+. Ibeju-Lekki corridor plots from ₦1m–₦40m depending on proximity to infrastructure. Suburban mainland areas (Ikorodu, Badagry) from ₦1m–₦10m.
How much does land cost in Abuja?
Abuja land is acquired via Right of Occupancy from FCDA. Premium district plots (Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse) are rarely available and command ₦100m–₦500m+. Secondary market purchases in Gwarinpa, Life Camp, and Lugbe range from ₦10m–₦60m. Satellite towns (Kuje, Bwari, Gwagwalada) offer very affordable land from ₦2m–₦10m but with lower infrastructure provision.
What is the land buying process in Nigeria?
The main steps are: (1) Identify land and verify title with your solicitor. (2) Conduct an official Lands Bureau search. (3) Commission a registered surveyor to verify boundaries. (4) Negotiate and sign a Sales Agreement with an initial deposit (typically 10–20%). (5) Pay the balance and sign the Deed of Assignment at completion. (6) Apply for Governor's Consent through the State Lands Bureau.
How long does it take to buy land in Nigeria?
From agreed offer to a signed Deed of Assignment typically takes 4–12 weeks for due diligence, negotiation, and legal preparation. Governor's Consent processing varies by state — 3–12 months is typical. Your solicitor should advise on current processing times in your target state.