Do you know that many landowners in Nigeria are at risk of losing their property due to unclear titles? Don’t be a victim to common mistakes that people have already made.

So, what guarantees your ownership of land in Nigeria? A land title does. But what exactly is a land title in Nigeria?

This article explains land title in Nigeria. It covers their meanings, types, and the documents involved in buying land. To help you secure your land ownership and protect your investments. Keep reading to know more.

What is a Land Title in Nigeria?

Land title in Nigeria are official documents that prove ownership and rights to a piece of land. These government-issued documents prove valid land ownership.

Types of Land Title in Nigeria

1. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)

It’s a grant document from the state government. It shows a person, group, or organization’s right to occupy and own land.

The original and first owner of a property (virgin land) receives this document only once. And it’s usually issued for all governments’ land allocations and properties.

The C of O is for all purposes for a period of time not exceeding 99 years, subject to renewal.

But the land title document prevents many people from owning land.

2. Excision & Gazette

Excision and Gazette are official documents that prove you own a piece of land and ensure no one can contest it. They show the government has set aside this land for you. Imagine you buy land, only to discover that someone disputes it. An Excision and Gazette land title solves this problem.

It tells you that the government has excised a part of land from a larger area and recorded it in a public journal.

Having an excision and a gazette title gives you peace of mind.

3. Probate and Letters of Administration

When a loved one passes away, managing their property can be stressful. Heirs need probate and letters of administration to transfer land ownership. Probate checks if the will is valid, while the letters appoint someone to manage the property.

These documents ensure a smooth transfer and prevent conflicts. You can get both documents from the Probate Registry of the State High Court or the Federal Capital Territory High Court. Probate and Letters of Administration protect land title in Nigeria. They also resolve inheritance issues.

4. Governor’s Consent

In Nigeria, when you buy or sell land, you need the Governor’s approval, known as the Governor’s Consent. This approval tells the government that the land has new owners. It helps to legalize the transfer and secure your ownership rights.

Governor’s consent is important. It prevents disputes and ensures the government knows of the ownership transfer. When land changes hands, the new buyer must apply for the Governor’s consent to update the records.

Buyers and sellers must get the Governor’s consent for a smooth transfer. This applies to all land transactions, whether buying, selling, or transferring ownership.

In essence, the governor’s consent protects your land investment. It gives you peace of mind and secure ownership.

5. Court Judgment

Imagine winning a land dispute case in court. That’s what a court judgment means. You’ve won your land rights against the government or another party.

With a court judgment in your favor, you can now process land documents. This will secure your exclusive ownership rights. You can also get vital documents like:

• Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
• Governor’s Consent
• Excision
• Gazette

This document confirms your land ownership. It will secure your property and ensure its official recognition.

6. Right of Occupancy

A Right of Occupancy guarantees your legal occupation and use of the land. This vital document confirms your ownership and protects your property rights.

• A standard process grants a right of occupancy.
• A formal agreement with the government or landowner.
• It protects your investment, making sure no one can dispute your land ownership.

With a Right of Occupancy, you have:

• Protection from unauthorized land use.
• Assurance of legitimate land ownership.

Guide your land today with a right of occupancy.

7. Government Allocation

Government allocation is when the government gives land for specific purposes. This land is usually part of government-acquired properties set aside for development.

Real estate firms, hospitals, and government agencies often request land from the government. Once approved, the government issues an allocation document confirming the land transfer.

This document confirms the land transfer. It specifies the purpose and terms of the allocation. Must for legitimate land ownership.

8. Registered Survey Plan

A Registered Survey Plan is a detailed map. It shows land boundaries, measurements, and ownership.

Certified Surveyors create this plan, and the government must approve it. It helps prevent disputes and ensures clarity in land ownership.

The plan includes:

Precise land measurements

Location details

Owner’s information

Surveyor’s stamp and signature

With a registered survey plan, you have a clear record of your land.

Land Documents Required in The Process of Buying A Land

Contract of Sale

A Contract of Sale is a legal agreement between the buyer and seller. It outlines the property details and payment terms, including current and future payments. This contract protects both parties’ interests.

Buy Receipt

A Buy Receipt is proof of payment. It must feature the buyer’s name in a prominent position and include their signature. This receipt confirms the sale and is essential for verifying ownership.

Survey Plan

A Survey Plan maps the land. It shows its boundaries, title type (like Excision, Gazette, or C of O), and acquisition status. This plan helps prevent disputes and ensures clarity in land ownership.

Deed of Assignment

A Deed of Assignment transfers land ownership. It describes the land using the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) and confirms the transfer to the buyer. To be valid, you must sign and stamp it.

Conclusion

Many investors fall victim to fake or disputed land titles. Especially first-time buyers. Now land ownership relies on various documents, each serving a unique purpose. Familiarize yourself with these land titles and ensure a smooth property owning process.

Don’t risk your investment. Always verify land titles before purchasing property.