How to Verify Land Documents Before Buying Property in Nigeria (2025 Guide)

How to Verify Land Documents Before Buying Property in Nigeria (2025 Guide)

Buying land in Nigeria can be one of the smartest investments you make — but only if you do it right. With the increasing rate of land scams and property fraud in Nigeria, knowing how to verify land documents before buying any property is absolutely essential.

This guide will walk you through the most important land documents in Nigeria, how to verify them, and where to go for proper land title checks. If you’re serious about owning property legally and securely, keep reading.

Why Land Document Verification is Important

The real estate sector in Nigeria is booming, but so is the number of fraudulent property deals. Many unsuspecting buyers have lost millions to fake sellers, cloned documents, and double allocation of plots.

To avoid these costly mistakes, every buyer should carry out land document verification in Nigeria before paying a dime.

Major Land Documents You Must Verify

Below are the key land title documents that you must check carefully before concluding any land transaction:

1. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)

What it is: A legal document issued by the state government, confirming the ownership and purpose of the land.

How to verify it:

• Visit the state land registry (e.g., AGIS in Abuja, Alausa in Lagos).

• Request a land search using the document reference number.

• Check if the land has been previously allocated, if it has disputes, or if it’s under government acquisition.

2. Deed of Assignment

What it is: This is a legal document that transfers ownership from the seller to the buyer.

How to verify it:

• Ensure it is duly signed by both parties and registered at the land registry.

• Confirm that the seller has the legal authority to transfer the property.

3. Survey Plan

What it is: A drawing that shows the exact location, boundaries, and size of the land.

How to verify it:

• Submit the plan to a registered surveyor or the Office of the Surveyor General.

• Confirm that the land is not within government acquisition areas or designated for specific use (like green zones, pipelines, etc.).

4. Governor’s Consent

What it is: According to the Land Use Act of 1978, any land transaction must be approved by the state governor.

How to verify it:

• Ask for a copy from the seller and confirm with the land registry that the consent was actually granted.

Steps to Verify Land Documents in Nigeria

Here’s a step-by-step approach to verify any land documents:

✅ Step 1: Request All Title Documents

Always ask for original or certified true copies of:

• C of O

• Survey Plan

• Deed of Assignment

• Receipts

• Allocation Letter (if it’s from an estate)

✅ Step 2: Conduct a Land Search at the Land Registry

Visit the State Ministry of Lands and pay for a land search. This will reveal:

• Ownership history

• Whether the land has any court issues, mortgage, or encumbrance

• If the land is under acquisition or has government interest

✅ Step 3: Use a Trusted Lawyer or Real Estate Consultant

Avoid cutting corners. A professional real estate lawyer or consultant will:

• Ensure documents are genuine and valid

• Conduct due diligence on the land and seller

• Draft and register the necessary agreements

✅ Step 4: Physically Inspect the Land

• Check if it matches the survey plan

• Ensure there are no disputes or family issues tied to the land

• Speak to the neighbors or local community leaders

Red Flags to Watch Out For

• Seller refuses to show original documents

• Seller insists on urgency or emotional pressure

• Documents are not registered

• Land has multiple claimants

• Price is too good to be true

Final Tips Before Buying Land in Nigeria

• Never pay in cash without documentation

• Avoid verbal agreements — everything must be written and signed

• Don’t rely solely on seller-provided information

• Always conduct independent verification of land title

• Be especially careful with lands in developing or high-demand areas like Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, or Lekki

Conclusion: Secure Your Investment with Proper Due Diligence

Whether you’re buying land for personal use or real estate investment, verifying land documents in Nigeria is a non-negotiable step. It’s not just about what documents the seller presents — it’s about what’s verified and confirmed by the authorities.

At Ambrose Homes, we help clients navigate property purchases safely by ensuring 100% verified and titled lands. If you’re planning to buy land in Abuja or anywhere in Nigeria, reach out to us for a free consultation.

📞 Call/WhatsApp: 0813 831 8431
📧 Email: ambrosehomesrealty@gmail.com