In 2025, real estate remains one of Nigeria’s most popular forms of investment. From Lagos to Abuja, aspiring homeowners and diaspora investors are buying land and property with hopes of stability and returns. Unfortunately, this demand continues to fuel a parallel market of sophisticated fraud.
These scams are no longer crude—they involve polished websites, phony estates, falsified documents, and even complicit officials. To navigate this space safely, buyers must be armed with awareness.
Here are the top 10 real estate scams Nigerians should be wary of in 2025, how they operate, and what red flags to watch out for.
1. The Fake Estate Launch
A developer advertises a new estate with elegant flyers, glossy 3D renders, and irresistible discounts. But the estate doesn’t exist—or is on land under government acquisition. After a rush of deposits, the promoters vanish or endlessly delay.
Avoid it: Never pay based on marketing alone. Demand physical inspection, title verification, and government layout approval.
2. Double Allocation
Two (or more) buyers are issued documents for the same plot. In some cases, even surveyors or insiders at land registries are involved.
Avoid it: Always verify allocation letters at the land registry and insist on a properly registered deed with survey coordinates.
3. Forged Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
A seller shows you a pristine C of O. But later checks reveal it was forged or belonged to a different plot.
Avoid it: Visit the land registry with a lawyer to confirm authenticity. Don’t trust photocopies or scanned versions.
4. Fake Land Sellers (‘Omo-Onile’ Impersonators)
Impostors parade as community landowners, collect fees, and disappear. Later, real owners surface and demand more money—or eviction.
Avoid it: Involve a local lawyer familiar with the area. Confirm land ownership from multiple community sources.
5. Ghost Developers with Fancy Websites
Some companies exist only online, often with foreign-sounding names and stolen images. They claim to offer land in prime locations with zero site visits.
Avoid it: Verify the company’s CAC registration, office address, and physical existence. Never invest without on-site inspection.
6. Unregistered Agents Disguised as Realtors
These individuals pose as legitimate brokers but lack any license or accountability. They often peddle non-existent properties or inflate prices.
Avoid it: Work with agents affiliated with credible firms. Ask for references and check online reviews.
7. Development Levy Ambush
After purchasing land in an estate, buyers suddenly face unexplained levies running into millions—for infrastructure, survey, or documentation.
Avoid it: Demand a written breakdown of all fees before purchase. If a deal seems too cheap, hidden fees are likely.
8. Government Land Resale
Some scammers resell land earmarked for public infrastructure or reserved as green space, knowing eventual demolition is inevitable.
Avoid it: Use a surveyor to chart and file for a land information certificate or charting report. Don’t rely on fences and beacons alone.
9. Token Payment Disappearances
You pay a small initial deposit (“to hold the plot”), expecting to balance later. But the seller disappears, and you’re told the plot was sold.
Avoid it: Never pay without a formal offer letter and receipt. Demand an allocation agreement.
10. Fake Building Approvals or “Estate” Titles
Some scammers parade layouts claiming approval or C of O “in progress.” But neither the layout nor the title exists.
Avoid it: Ask to see official layout approval from the state planning office. If the estate isn’t listed with state housing authorities, be suspicious.
Conclusion: Buyer Beware, Buyer Prepared
Real estate remains a powerful tool for wealth building in Nigeria. But in 2025, vigilance is more essential than ever. Scammers prey on ignorance, urgency, and blind trust.
Before buying land or property, take a breath. Do your due diligence, involve a real estate lawyer, and ask hard questions. Your future self will thank you.
FAQs
1. How can I verify if a land title is real in Nigeria?
Visit the appropriate land registry and request a search through a legal representative.
2. Is it safe to buy land online in Nigeria?
Only if the platform is verified and you inspect the property physically.
3. What are omo-onile issues in Lagos?
Local land-owning families demanding informal payments before or after land purchase.
4. Can a fake C of O be detected?
Yes—through title search and document authentication at the land registry.
5. Are real estate agents regulated in Nigeria?
Not strictly. Work with certified firms or agents under known real estate companies.
