Land Titles in Nigeria Explained: Know your Property Rights
In Nigeria, land titles are critical in real estate and define the legal status and ownership of land. Here are the key types of land titles in Nigeria:
1. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
Issued by the government, this title proves legal ownership and grants the right to occupy and use a property for 99 years.
Often granted for both private and commercial land and is the most commonly recognized proof of land ownership.
Important for bank loans and property transactions.
2. Governor’s Consent
In Nigeria, land transactions require the Governor's consent if the land has an existing Certificate of Occupancy.
This title certifies that the government has approved the sale or transfer of a property to a new owner.
It validates the transaction and confirms the new owner’s rights under Nigerian land law.
3. Deed of Assignment/Conveyance
This document legally transfers property ownership from one party to another.
It contains details of the property, the parties involved, and the transaction date.
This deed must be registered at the state’s land registry for full legal effect.
4. Excision and Gazette
Excision is the process by which the government releases a portion of acquired land to indigenous communities or individuals.
Once excised, this land is officially recorded in the Gazette, a government publication.
Land with a Gazette title is free from government acquisition, meaning it is safe for purchase and development.
5. Registered Survey Plan
A survey plan maps out the land's exact dimensions, location, and boundaries.
It is crucial in land transactions as it specifies the precise size and coordinates.
A registered survey plan helps confirm that the land isn’t under government acquisition or restricted areas.
6. Deed of Mortgage
This title is commonly used when a property is used as collateral for a loan.
The lender holds the deed until the loan is fully repaid.
It serves as a security measure for financial institutions lending funds for property acquisition or development.
7. Land Certificate
Mostly used in rural areas, this document was commonly issued before the Land Use Act of 1978.
It verifies ownership of land that has been held traditionally, but it’s less common today due to the modern C of O.
8. Right of Occupancy (R of O)
This document is similar to a Certificate of Occupancy but issued by local governments.
It provides the holder with rights to use the land for a limited time, typically for a specific purpose, like agriculture or commercial activities.
Understanding Land Title Verification
Before acquiring land in Nigeria, verifying the title is crucial to avoid future disputes or government acquisition issues. Land transactions in Nigeria involve various agencies, including state land registries and surveyor general offices, where title documents are verified and registered.