Buying land in Nigeria can be a profitable investment if done correctly.
However, it also comes with risks such as land scams, legal issues, and disputes.
To avoid costly mistakes, you need a clear strategy that ensures you buy genuine, well-located, and legally secure land at the best price.
Bullionrise consult will provide a step-by-step guide in this article, on the best strategy to buy land in Nigeria, including legal checks, location analysis, and negotiation tactics.
Step 1: Determine Your Purpose for Buying Land
Before buying land, ask yourself: Why am I buying this land?
- For personal residence: Look for land in a secure, accessible, and well-developed area.
- For commercial purposes: Choose a location with high demand and business potential.
- For investment: Buy land in fast-growing areas where prices will appreciate.
- For agriculture: Ensure the land has fertile soil and water access.
Step 2: Set a Budget and Plan for Hidden Costs
Buying land involves more than just the purchase price. Consider other expenses such as:
- Legal fees (Lawyer & Surveyor) – ₦50,000 to ₦500,000 depending on location.
- Documentation costs – For land titles like C of O (Certificate of Occupancy) and Deed of Assignment.
- Development fees – Some areas require payment for road access, security, or utilities.
- Agency fees – If using an agent, expect to pay 5-10% of the land price.
Always budget 10-20% extra to cover hidden costs.
Step 3: Choose the Right Location
The location of your land determines its value, development potential, and resale price.
Key Factors to Consider:
- Accessibility: Can you reach the land easily by road?
- Security: Is the area safe from theft and land disputes?
- Government Plans: Check if the government has plans for road expansion, drainage, or demolitions.
- Future Value: Is the area developing? Look for signs like new businesses, schools, and roads.
Best Places to Buy Land in Nigeria (2025)
- Lagos: Ibeju-Lekki, Epe, Ikorodu (Good for investment)
- Abuja: Lugbe, Kuje, Karshi (Affordable and developing fast)
- Port Harcourt: Eleme, Ikwere, Choba
- Enugu: Independence Layout, GRA, Awkunanaw
- Owerri: New Owerri, World Bank, Orji
Avoid flood-prone areas or land with disputed ownership.
Step 4: Verify Land Ownership & Documents
Many people lose money because they fail to verify ownership before buying land.
What Documents do you need to Check?
- Survey Plan: Confirms the exact land location and size.
- Deed of Assignment: Proof of land transfer from the previous owner.
- Certificate of Occupancy (C of O): Government-approved land title.
- Governor’s Consent: Required for land that has changed hands multiple times.
Hire a lawyer and surveyor to verify documents before payment.
See related – What are the requirements for building approval?
Step 5: Conduct a Physical Inspection
Never buy land without seeing it in person. Some sellers show fake pictures or sell land in waterlogged or disputed areas.
What do you Check During Inspection?
- Confirm location and size matches the survey plan.
- Check for signs of disputes (e.g., multiple signposts claiming ownership).
- Ask locals about the land’s history (avoid land with frequent ownership issues).
- Check soil quality (important for building and farming).
Visit the land at different times of the day to check for flooding, accessibility, and security.
Step 6: Negotiate the Price & Terms
Land prices are negotiable, so don’t accept the first price.
Negotiation Tips:
- Research market prices in the area before negotiating.
- Point out any issues (e.g., bad road access) to reduce the price.
- Offer to pay in full for discounts (if you can afford it).
- Use a lawyer to ensure fair purchase terms.
If buying from a family, speak with all key family members to avoid future disputes.
Step 7: Make Payment & Collect Receipts
Once you agree on a price, make payments through the bank (never cash).
Collect these documents after payment:
- Receipt of payment – Proof you paid the seller.
- Deed of Assignment – Legal proof that the land now belongs to you.
- Possession letter – Some sellers issue this as additional proof of transfer.
Always sign documents in the presence of a lawyer and witnesses.
See related – Deed of assignment meaning and it’s importance
Step 8: Register Your Land with the Government
To legally own land, you must register it with the government.
Steps to Register Your Land:
- Submit documents to the Lands Registry in your state.
- Apply for a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O).
- Pay stamp duty and registration fees.
- Receive a file number and follow up until your documents are approved.
If your land already has a C of O, apply for Governor’s Consent to complete ownership transfer.
See related – C of O meaning and how to get it in Nigeria
Step 9: Secure Your Land
After purchase, take steps to protect your land from encroachment.
- Fence the land – Even a simple wire fence deters trespassers.
- Put a signpost with your name and contact information.
- Hire a caretaker (if you won’t use the land immediately).
If in a developing estate, ensure you get estate allocation papers to confirm ownership.
Common Land Buying Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying land without verifying documents.
- Paying in cash without proof of payment.
- Trusting agents without confirming land authenticity.
- Ignoring government restrictions or zoning laws.
- Not involving a lawyer or surveyor.
The Best Strategy to Buy Land in Nigeria
The best way to buy land in Nigeria is to follow a structured, step-by-step process that ensures you buy genuine, secure, and valuable land.
- Define your purpose for buying land.
- Set a realistic budget and prepare for hidden costs.
- Choose a good location with growth potential.
- Verify ownership documents before making payment.
- Conduct a physical inspection before buying.
- Negotiate the price and ensure legal paperwork is done.
- Register your land with the government.
- Secure your land to prevent encroachment.
By following these strategies, you can avoid scams, buy land with confidence, and enjoy long-term value on your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
