Essential Land Documents You Need to Know About in 2025 or risk losing all your investment.
Chinonso Nelson .
Prolific Writer || Digital Strategist || Media Consultant || Real Estate Enthusiast, Passionate About Marketing & Leadership in Real Estate.
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:
1. Deed of Assignment
This is the legal document that transfers ownership of the land from the seller to the buyer. Without it, you have no proof that the land was transferred to you.
?? If a seller refuses to give you this? ?????? Major red flag.
2. Survey Plan
This document helps you identify the land’s exact location, size, and whether it falls under government acquisition. Many people have bought lands inside government reserved areas and only found out when demolition started.
?? Always confirm the land status with the Surveyor General’s office.
3. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
This is the document that shows the government recognizes you as the legal owner of the land. Without it, the land technically belongs to the government.
?? If your land doesn’t have a C of O, ensure it has at least an Excision or Gazette.
4. Governor’s Consent
If you’re buying land from someone who already has a C of O, you need a Governor’s Consent to validate the transfer. This document makes your ownership official under the Land Use Act of 1978.
?? Without it, you may wake up one morning and realize someone else has laid claim to your land.
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5. 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.
?? If your land doesn’t have excision or a Gazette, the government still owns it, and you’re playing with fire.
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:
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
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