Buying Land in Nigeria? 6 Checks That Save You From Costly Mistakes
July 4, 2026Land remains one of the most reliable investments in Nigeria — but it's also where buyers lose the most money to disputes, "omo onile" trouble, and fake documents. Before you pay for any plot, run through these six checks.
1. Confirm the title document
Ask for the property's title — a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), Governor's Consent, or a registered Deed of Assignment. Avoid land sold with only a "receipt" or an unregistered agreement. On RentBuyStay, listings from verified agents and agencies make it easier to start from a trustworthy source.
2. Do a search at the land registry
A search at the state land registry confirms who really owns the land and whether it's under any government acquisition or dispute. It's a small cost that can save you millions.
3. Check for government acquisition
Some land falls under government commitment or is marked for public use. A registry search and a physical check with the local planning office will tell you if the plot is safe to build on.
4. Verify the survey plan
Make sure the survey plan is genuine and matches the exact plot you're buying. A licensed surveyor can confirm the coordinates and that the land isn't already allocated to someone else.
5. Visit the land in person
Photos and paperwork aren't enough. Walk the land, confirm the boundaries, and talk to neighbours. Physical inspection often reveals problems that documents hide.
6. Use a property lawyer
A good real estate lawyer will review every document, run the searches, and handle the transfer properly. The fee is tiny compared to the cost of buying disputed land.
Land ownership should build wealth, not headaches. Start with verified listings, do your due diligence, and let the right professionals guide you — that's how you buy with confidence on RentBuyStay.
