Did you know that 30-40% of land deals in Nigeria fall through due to legal complications? Without proper knowledge, getting through the land acquisition process can lead to costly mistakes.

If you’re wondering how to buy a land in Nigeria safely,  you’re at the right place. In this article, you’ll learn practical tips to secure the best plot. From verification to legal requirements, we’ve got you covered.

Without further ado, let’s get to it!

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What Do I Need To Know Before Buying a Land in Nigeria?

Before you go ahead to buy a land in Nigeria to either build your dream home or start a business, there are certain things you need to consider. Some of these things include:

• Your budget
• Location
• Purpose for buying land
• Size of land
• Availability of utilities
• Proximity to basic amenities

How To Purchase Land in Nigeria in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

To prevent legal complications, here are trusted steps on how to a buy land in Nigeria:

• Do your research
• Understanding land ownership and Land Use Act
• Verifying land titles and documents
• Work with a real estate lawyer
• Confirm zoning laws
• Sign a sales agreement
• Register the land at the Government land registry

1. Do Your Research: First Step on How To Buy a Land in Nigeria

When considering how to buy a land in Nigeria, the first thing you need to do is to conduct research. This would involve understanding the various types of land available.

You’ll need to know the purpose for which you want to buy the land. You’ll also have to familiarize yourself with the legal requirements of land ownership in Nigeria.

Popular locations to buy affordable land for investment in 2024 include Lagos, Abuja, Ogun, Enugu, and Port Hacourt.

Different Types of Land You Can Buy In Nigeria

For various purposes, there are different types of land in Nigeria you can invest in. Here are the different types of land you can own in Nigeria:

• Residential Land: This type of land is specifically for building homes. Before being this type of land, it’s important to check if it has the necessary approvals for residential use.
• Commercial Land: With this kind of land, you can establish a business or commercial venture. However, before you do so, you should ensure that you can use the land for commercial purposes.
• Agricultural Land: For those interested in farming or agribusiness, agricultural land is a viable option. It often comes at lower prices but may have restrictions on non-agricultural development.
• Industrial Land: This land type is best for manufacturing, warehousing, and other industrial purposes. Check if the land has proper zoning for industrial activities.

Understanding the type of land you need is important. This would help you ensure your investment aligns with your goals and is free from future legal problems.

2. Understanding Land Ownership/ Land Use Act

This is an important thing to know concerning how to buy a land in Nigeria. According to the Nigerian constitution, every Nigerian citizen has the right to buy or own land.

This right is governed by the Land Use Act of 1978 and it gives the governor control over every land within a state. Without the government’s consent, private land ownership isn’t allowed.

To obtain the governor’s consent, this would take up to six months. It’ll also cost at least 3-5% of the land value. Furthermore, you need to have a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) to buy land in Nigeria.

This document recognizes an individual’s right to occupy and use land for a set period, usually 99 years.

3. Verifying Land Titles and Documents: Important Step When Learning How To Buy a Land in Nigeria

When learning how to buy a land in Nigeria, one step you shouldn’t miss is verifying land documents and titles. This helps to ensure that the land is free from legal complications.

Some important documents you need to verify include:

• Deed of Assignment: This legal agreement transfers ownership from the land seller to the buyer. For the transaction to be official, it has to be registered with the land registry.
• Survey Plan: This document needs to be approved by the relevant government authorities. It simply defines the exact boundaries and measurements of the land.
• Governor’s Consent: For land that already has a Certificate of Occupancy, obtaining the governor’s consent is mandatory. This legal step confirms that the land transaction is recognized by the government.

Working with a property lawyer is advisable when learning the process of how to a buy land in Nigeria. With the help of a property lawyer, you can ensure that the land’s titles are valid and legitimate.

Also, a lawyer will help conduct thorough checks on the property’s legal standing.

4. Work With a Real Estate Lawyer

When it comes to knowing how to buy a land in Nigeria, working with a real estate lawyer can help. Following through with land transactions in Nigeria can be stressful.

However, with the help of a real estate lawyer, you can go through the process with ease and safeguard your investment from potential disputes or fraud.

How a Lawyer Protects Your Investment

By working with a real estate lawyer, you reduce the risk of falling victim to fraudsters. Or encountering legal complications that could lead to the nullification of the sale.

The lawyer’s role is to ensure that the land transaction complies with the Land Use Act. With this, you can be sure that your purchase is secure.

5. Confirm Zoning Laws

It’s easy to overlook zoning laws when purchasing a land especially if it has a land title. However, ignoring zoning laws isn’t the best thing to do. Zoning laws dictate how land can be used—whether for residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural purposes.

Confirming this law helps you ensure the land aligns with your intended use. This would help you avoid legal issues like fines or project halts. So, before paying for a land, always consult the local planning authority or a real estate lawyer to verify the zoning.

6. Sign a Sales Agreement

Now, signing a sales agreement is an important step in how to buy a land. This legal document spells out everything—from the price to the payment terms and specific land details.

A sales agreement makes sure both you and the seller are protected and that everything is clear and secure. However, it’s always a smart move to work with a real estate lawyer to help draft and review the agreement.

Doing this will help you ensure you’re covering all the legal bases before you finalize the deal.

7. Register the Land at the Government Land Registry

After signing the deed and completing payment, the next important step is registering your land at the Land Registry. This process officially transfers ownership to you and protects you against any future disputes.

Believe it or not, this is one of the most important steps, yet many buyers skip it. By registering, you gain legal protection if any issues come up down the road.

Without it, even with a valid deed, you could lose your rights to the property. So, don’t overlook this step—it’s essential!

Final Thoughts on How To Buy a Land in Nigeria

Knowing how to buy a land in Nigeria can save you from a lot of stress and potential legal issues. By doing your research, verifying documents, and working with a real estate lawyer, you can make the process more secure.

Don’t forget to check zoning laws and register your land once the deal is done. With these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to buy land confidently and avoid common pitfalls.