Buying land in Nigeria is one of the most important decisions you can make. Land ownership is often seen as a sign of stability and security, and many Nigerians see it as the first step toward building a family home, developing an estate, or even making a long-term investment. At the same time, land transactions are also some of the riskiest deals in the property market. Stories of people paying for land that was sold to multiple buyers, or discovering after purchase that the land is under government acquisition, are all too common.
This is why it is important to approach land purchase with wisdom, patience, and the right checks. If you are considering buying land, here are five things you must always confirm before you pay a single naira.
1. Verify the documents
The first and most important step is to confirm that the land has the right papers. Do not rely on photocopies or the seller’s promises. Insist on original documents such as a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), a Deed of Assignment, or a Governor’s Consent depending on the type of land and its history. If the seller presents a survey plan, make sure it is valid and properly registered. The safest approach is to take these documents to the land registry in the state where the land is located and confirm their authenticity.
2. Confirm the true owner
In Nigeria, land is often sold by family representatives or community leaders, but not everyone who claims authority has the right to sell. To avoid paying the wrong person, always verify who the legal owner is. Ask for identification, ask for family consent if it is family land, and where possible, speak to neighbors or local residents. A land lawyer can also help you trace the ownership chain to be sure you are dealing with the rightful owner.
3. Check the survey plan
A survey plan is more than just a drawing; it shows the size, location, and coordinates of the land. Most importantly, it tells you whether the land is free or under government acquisition. Many buyers have lost money after realizing that their land sits on land marked for road expansion or government projects. If the survey shows that the land is under acquisition, walk away. It is better to wait than to sink money into a property you cannot use.
4. Inspect the land physically
Never buy land you have not visited yourself. It is not enough to rely on pictures or videos. Go there in person, and do not just go once. Visit at different times of the day and even on weekends. Look at the surroundings, check accessibility, and confirm that the land matches the description in the documents. Speak to neighbors and ask questions. They can often reveal hidden issues such as ownership disputes, flooding, or security concerns.
5. Work with a lawyer
Many people try to cut costs by avoiding lawyers, but this often leads to bigger losses. A property lawyer will help you review documents, draft agreements, and ensure your rights are protected. They can also help you detect fraud that you may not notice. The cost of a lawyer is nothing compared to the risk of losing your entire savings to a fake deal.
Final Thoughts
Land ownership is a dream for many Nigerians, but it should never be rushed. Take your time, ask the right questions, and involve professionals. If you verify documents, confirm ownership, check the survey plan, inspect the land physically, and work with a lawyer, you will greatly reduce the risk of being scammed.
At Olasco Properties, we believe every client deserves clarity and peace of mind. That is why we connect you with verified listings and guide you through a transparent process from start to finish. Buying land should be a moment of joy, not regret, and with the right steps, it can be one of the best decisions you ever make.
