Purchasing land in Nigeria is a significant investment, and verifying the authenticity of land titles is crucial to avoid fraudulent transactions. This guide provides a detailed approach to identifying genuine land titles, ensuring your investment is secure.
1. Understand Essential Land Documents
Before proceeding with any land transaction, familiarize yourself with the key documents that establish land ownership in Nigeria:
- Certificate of Occupancy (C of O): Issued by the state government, this document grants the holder the right to occupy land for 99 years.
- Deed of Assignment: A legal document that transfers ownership from the seller to the buyer. Ensure it’s duly registered at the Land Registry.
- Survey Plan: Outlines the exact measurements and boundaries of the land. Verify its authenticity with the Office of the Surveyor-General.
- Governor’s Consent: Required for any subsequent transactions after the initial grant of the C of O, validating the legality of the transaction.
2. Conduct a Land Registry Search
Visiting the Land Registry in the state where the property is located is a critical step. This search will reveal:
- The true owner of the land
- Any existing encumbrances, such as mortgages or legal disputes
- Whether the land is under government acquisition
In Lagos State, for instance, the Land Registry is located at the Lagos State Government Secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja.
3. Verify the Survey Plan
Engage a licensed surveyor to inspect the land and compare it with the survey plan. Cross-check the plan with records at the Office of the Surveyor-General to ensure:
- The land’s boundaries and size are accurate
- The land is not part of a government acquisition or encroaching on another property
4. Confirm the Deed of Assignment
The Deed of Assignment should detail the transfer of ownership, including:
- Accurate property description
- Names and signatures of both parties
- Date of transaction
Ensure this document is registered at the Land Registry to provide stronger proof of ownership.
5. Obtain Governor’s Consent
For any land transaction involving a previously owned property, obtaining the Governor’s Consent is mandatory. This consent validates the legality of the transaction and should be verified at the State Land Bureau.
6. Investigate the Land’s History
Understanding the land’s history can prevent future disputes. Engage with local residents and community leaders to uncover:
- Previous ownership details
- Any existing disputes or claims
- If the land is part of a family inheritance or communal land
7. Engage a Real Estate Lawyer
Hiring a qualified real estate lawyer provides an added layer of protection. They can:
- Analyze and interpret legal documents
- Conduct due diligence by verifying all necessary documents
- Negotiate terms and clarify potential red flags or discrepancies
8. Be Aware of Common Land Scams
Stay vigilant against common land fraud tactics in Nigeria:
- Omonile Fraud: Local landowners reselling the same plot to multiple buyers
- Fake Allocation Letters: Issuing counterfeit documents for non-existent plots
- Selling Land Under Government Acquisition: Marketing lands earmarked for public projects as private property
- Forged Documents: Creating counterfeit land documents to deceive buyers
9. Utilize Online Verification Portals
Some states offer online platforms to verify land documents. For example, Lagos State provides the e-GIS portal for electronic verification of land titles.
Conclusion
Verifying land titles in Nigeria is a meticulous process that requires due diligence and professional assistance. By following these steps, you can ensure the authenticity of land documents and safeguard your investment.
Note: This article is based on information available as of April 2025. For the most current procedures and regulations, consult the relevant state authorities or legal professionals.