Land Acquisition and Legal Tips in Lagos Real Estate

Lagos remains the beating heart of Nigeria’s real estate market, a fast-growing megacity where land appreciates rapidly and demand continues to soar. As the state expands into new urban corridors Ikorodu, Badagry, Epe, Ibeju-Lekki, and parts of Eti-Osa more individuals, diaspora Nigerians, investors, and developers are eager to secure land for residential, commercial, and industrial purposes. But land acquisition in Lagos is not as straightforward as simply finding a nice plot and paying for it. The legalities involved are complex, influenced by history, policy, traditional ownership structures, and government regulations. Anyone hoping to buy land in Lagos must understand the processes, risks, and essential legal protections needed to avoid costly mistakes.

Lagos land is primarily categorized into three ownership structures:

1. Government-Owned Land: These lands are under the control of the state government. They may be designated for public use, future development, or allocated through formal schemes like the Lagos State New Towns Development Authority (NTDA). Buying directly from government-approved schemes is often the safest option.

2. Family-Owned Land: Historically, land in Lagosbespecially in rural or expansion zones is held by indigenous families. Many private developers purchase large acreages from these families to create new estates. While this option can be affordable, it requires careful verification.

3. Excision and Village Land: Some lands fall within traditional communities but may be excised (released back to families) by the government. Excision status is crucial because it determines whether the land is legal and free from acquisition.

Understanding who truly owns the land is the foundation of a safe real estate investment.

Essential Documents Required for Safe Land Acquisition

Before buying any land, ensure the following documents are available and verified:

1. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)

This is the gold-standard land title issued by the Lagos State Government. It proves the government’s legal recognition of the owner’s rights. A C of O guarantees the highest level of security and reduces the risk of disputes.

2. Governor’s Consent

When a property already has a C of O but is being resold, the new buyer must obtain a Governor’s Consent, legally transferring ownership. Many investors ignore this step, leading to complications later.

3. Gazette / Excision Documents

If the land is excised, the community has legal rights to sell. The Lagos State Gazette contains maps and listings of excised villages. This document is crucial for rural or semi-rural land purchases.

4. Registered Survey Plan

This shows the exact size and location of the land and whether it falls under government acquisition, committed land, or free land. A surveyor registered with the Lagos State Surveyor General must verify it.

5. Deed of Assignment

A legal document signed between buyer and seller, showing that ownership has been transferred.

6. Receipt of Purchase and Contract of Sale

Proof that payment was made legitimately.

Any land lacking these documents should be approached with caution.

How to Verify Land Before Purchase

Verifying land is the most important step in Lagos real estate. Fraud, double sales, and “Omo Onile” (land grabbers) conflicts happen when buyers fail to investigate thoroughly.

Conduct a Search at the Land Registry

Visit the Lagos State Lands Bureau to confirm:

Whether the property has proper title.

Whether it is under government acquisition.

Whether there are existing disputes or previous claims.

Check with the Surveyor General’s Office

Submit the survey plan for charting. This will confirm:

Whether the land is free or committed.

Whether the coordinates match what the seller claims.

Whether the land overlaps with another parcel.

Engage a Real Estate Lawyer

Never attempt to verify land on your own. A qualified property lawyer knows how to:

Review land documents.

Detect inconsistencies.

Confirm authenticity.

Draft safe agreements.

Legal verification protects buyers from fraudulent developers, fake land sellers, and hidden encumbrances.

Avoiding Common Land Scams in Lagos

Land scams in Lagos are sophisticated. Understanding the most common tricks helps buyers stay protected.

1. Double or Multiple Sales

Unscrupulous individuals sell the same land to multiple buyers. Without a deed or proper registration, the first buyer may lose out.

2. Fake Survey Plans

Some survey plans are forged or unregistered. Only certified surveyors with Seal and Stamp should be trusted.

3. “Free Trade Zone,” “Government Approved,” or “Buy and Build” Claims

Some developers fabricate labels to make land appear legit. Always verify such claims independently.

4. Omo Onile Harassment

Traditional family members may demand extra payments even after purchase. Buying land with proper titles and negotiating professionally reduces this risk.

5. “In Process Title” Deception

Sellers often claim land has a C of O in view. Only legally issued documents count intentions are not titles.

Payment Structure and Legal Steps in Lagos Land Acquisition

A safe acquisition process typically follows these steps:

1. Inspection: Visit the land physically with a surveyor.

2. Document Verification: Your lawyer verifies titles at the Land Registry.

3. Negotiation: Agree on price and payment terms.

4. Purchase Agreement: Sign a Contract of Sale.

5. Payment: Transfer funds to an official company account.

Tips for First-Time Land Buyers in Lagos

Never buy land without a lawyer.

Always chart the land before paying.

Avoid paying in cash; use traceable transfers.

Beware of extremely cheap offers real land rarely sells below market value.

Visit the land multiple times, at different times of the day.

Meet neighbors or nearby residents to confirm land history.

Validate estate developers through their corporate records.

Prudent buyers are protected buyers.

Land acquisition in Lagos is one of the smartest investments anyone can make but only when done correctly. The market offers huge opportunities for wealth creation, long-term financial security, and property appreciation. However, the legal terrain is complex, and the risks are real. Understanding land ownership structures, verifying documents, involving professionals, and following approved legal processes ensure a safe and successful purchase.

When in doubt, always prioritize due diligence over speed. Lagos real estate rewards the careful, not the careless.