What Documents Do I Need Before Buying Land in Nigeria? (Complete Guide)
Buying land in Nigeria—especially in high-demand areas like Lekki, Lagos—is one of the smartest investment decisions you can make. However, it is also one of the areas where many buyers get into trouble due to missing, fake, or unverified documents.
If you’ve ever asked, “What documents do I need before buying land?”, this guide is for you.
At Zahari Properties, we believe that informed buyers make secure investments. That’s why we guide our clients through every step of the land-buying process, ensuring transparency, legality, and peace of mind.
Why Land Documents Are So Important in Nigeria
Land documents are proof of ownership, legality, and government recognition. Without the right documents, you risk:
- Buying disputed land
- Losing your investment
- Facing demolition or litigation
- Being unable to resell or develop the property
This is why working with a trusted real estate company in Lekki, like Zahari Properties, is critical.
What Documents Do I Need Before Buying Land in Nigeria? Essential Land Documents Explained
1️⃣ Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
The Certificate of Occupancy is one of the most important land documents in Nigeria.
Issued by the State Government
Confirms legal ownership for 99 years
Required for development and resale
Many premium lands in Lekki and Victoria Island come with a Global C of O, which covers an entire estate.
✔ Zahari Properties only offers properties with verified titles.
2️⃣ Governor’s Consent
If the land has changed ownership since it was first issued a C of O, you will need a Governor’s Consent.
Confirms government approval of ownership transfer
Protects you from ownership disputes
Required for land registry documentation
This document is mandatory for secure transactions in Lagos State.
3️⃣ Deed of Assignment
This document shows that ownership has been legally transferred from the seller to the buyer.
Must be signed by both parties
Prepared by a legal practitioner
Registered at the Lands Registry
At Zahari Properties, we ensure all deeds are properly prepared and registered.
4️⃣ Survey Plan (Registered Survey)
A Survey Plan defines the exact location and boundaries of the land.
Must be registered with the Surveyor General’s Office
Confirms the land is not under government acquisition
Prevents boundary disputes
This is one of the first documents we verify before listing any property.
5️⃣ Land Information Certificate / Search Report
This document confirms the status of the land at the Lands Registry.
It shows:
- Ownership history
- Existing encumbrances
- Litigation or government claims
This step is crucial and should never be skipped.
6️⃣ Approved Layout Plan
An approved layout shows that the land is within a recognized and approved estate or community.
Ensures proper zoning
Confirms accessibility and infrastructure
Important for development approvals
Zahari Properties focuses on lands in prime locations with approved layouts.
7️⃣ Receipt & Contract of Sale
These documents confirm payment and agreement terms.
Receipt proves payment
Contract of Sale outlines terms and conditions
Protects both buyer and seller
Common Land Documents You Should Be Careful With
Not all documents guarantee safety. Be cautious if the land only has:
⚠ Family receipt without registered title
⚠ Unverified excision claims
⚠ Incomplete or unsigned documents
This is where professional guidance matters.
Why Buy Land with Zahari Properties?
At Zahari Properties, we remove the stress, confusion, and risk from land buying.
We offer:
✔ Prime locations across Lekki & Lagos
✔ Lands with verified C of O & Governor’s Consent
✔ High ROI investment opportunities
✔ Seamless buying process
✔ Professional legal & documentation support
✔ Smart investment advisory
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, investor, or developer, we ensure your land purchase is safe, secure, and profitable.
Final Advice for Smart Buyers
Never rush.
Never buy without verification.
Never rely on verbal promises.
The right documents protect your future.
📞 Ready to Buy Land the Right Way?
Let Zahari Properties guide you safely.
📍 Lekki, Lagos
📞 Call or WhatsApp: +234 907 301 3359
🌐 Visit us for inspections, consultations, and verified property options
