What Documents Should You Collect When Buying Land in Nigeria?

1. Certificate of Occupancy

The Certificate of Occupancy is widely regarded as the most important land document in Lagos. It is issued by the state government and proves that the owner has the right to occupy and use the land. If the land you are buying has a C of O in the seller's name, you must verify it at the Lagos State Lands Bureau to confirm it is genuine, that the seller is the rightful registered owner, and that there are no encumbrances, court orders, or government acquisition notices attached to it.

2. Governor's Consent

If the land already has a C of O and is being resold, Governor's Consent is equally important as it validates any subsequent transaction under the Land Use Act. The first buyer gets a C of O. Every subsequent buyer needs the Governor's Consent to legitimize the transaction. If you are buying resale land, insist that the seller has a valid Governor's Consent from their own purchase, and ensure you apply for yours after completing the transaction.

3. Deed of Assignment

The Deed of Assignment is the document that formally transfers the seller's rights and interest in the land to you. It must be drafted by a qualified lawyer, signed by both parties, stamped, and registered with the Lagos State Lands Registry. For resale transactions, the seller must also present their own previous Deed of Assignment showing how they lawfully acquired the land, and this deed should be stamped and registered with the government.

4. Survey Plan

A survey plan allows the buyer to verify the exact size and location of the land and check for any boundary issues or disputes. It is also required before a Certificate of Occupancy can be issued. Always commission an independent survey from a licensed surveyor registered with the Surveyor General's Office to confirm the plan matches the physical land.

5. Land Information Certificate

Issued by the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning, this document reveals whether the land is zoned appropriately for your intended use and whether it falls within any government acquisition or demolition zones. This is frequently overlooked by buyers and has caused many people to build on land that was subsequently demolished.

6. Tax Clearance Certificate

A tax clearance certificate is issued by the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service and shows that the seller is up to date with personal or corporate taxes. It is required for processing Governor's Consent and C of O.

7. Receipt of Purchase and Bank Transfer Records

Every payment made during the transaction should be documented with official bank receipts or electronic transfer confirmations. Never make cash payments without a corresponding paper trail. These records form part of your legal proof of purchase and must be cross-referenced in your legal documents.

8. Building Plan Approval (If You Intend to Develop)

Before starting construction, you must submit your architectural drawings to the Ministry of Physical Planning for approval. This helps avoid demolition or fines for building without permits. Obtain this approval before breaking ground.

The Bottom Line

Collecting all of the above documents and having each one independently verified by a qualified lawyer before completing payment is non-negotiable. Buying land in Lagos is not just about the money. It is about securing your future and peace of mind. The only way to do that is by ensuring every document tied to the land is authentic.

At Sardonyx Nigeria Limited, we guide serious buyers through every step of the documentation and verification process. Chat us on WhatsApp today and let us make sure your investment is fully protected.