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Land Documentation Guide

Know exactly what documents you need before buying or renting property in Nigeria.

State
Transaction Type

Showing requirements for Buying Land in Lagos

Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)Required

Primary proof of land ownership issued by the state governor. The gold standard for land titles in Nigeria.

Est. Cost₦50,000 – ₦500,000+
Processing Time3–12 months
Survey PlanRequired

Official map showing exact boundaries, size, and location of the land. Must be registered with the Surveyor General.

Est. Cost₦50,000 – ₦200,000
Processing Time2–6 weeks
Deed of AssignmentRequired

Legal document transferring ownership from seller to buyer. Must be signed by both parties and witnessed.

Est. Cost₦30,000 – ₦100,000 (legal fees)
Processing Time1–2 weeks
Governor's ConsentRequired

Required for any subsequent transfer after the initial C of O. Validates the transaction with the state government.

Est. Cost3–6% of property value
Processing Time6–24 months (Ogun State: 60-90 days via new e-Consent)
Receipt of Purchase / Payment EvidenceRequired

Bank transfer receipts, payment acknowledgments from the seller.

Est. CostFree
Processing TimeImmediate
Tax Clearance CertificateRecommended

Proof that the seller has paid relevant taxes. Required by some state land registries.

Est. CostVaries
Processing Time2–4 weeks
Search Report at Land RegistryRequired

Confirms the property is not under government acquisition, litigation, or encumbered. Essential due diligence.

Est. Cost₦10,000 – ₦50,000
Processing Time1–4 weeks
Excision GazetteRequired (Lagos/Ogun)

Government document releasing land from acquisition to community use. Critical for land in Lagos and Ogun state.

Est. CostVerify with seller (included in price)
Processing TimeN/A
Pro Tip

Always verify documents independently. Never rely solely on the seller's copies. Conduct a search at the state land registry before making any payment.

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