Most land disputes in Lagos could have been avoided before the first payment. A proper due-diligence process takes one to two weeks and costs a fraction of what a bad purchase costs. These are the seven checks we run for every client.
1. Confirm the title at the Lands Registry
Ask for the title document — Certificate of Occupancy, Governor’s Consent, or evidence of Excision or Gazette — and verify it at the Lagos State Lands Registry. A photocopy is not proof.
2. Chart the survey plan
Charting at the Office of the Surveyor-General shows whether the land falls under government acquisition, a road setback or another person’s survey.
3. Check for government acquisition
Land under acquisition cannot be safely bought unless it has been released. This is one of the most common traps.
4. Visit the site — more than once
Visit on a weekday and on a rainy day if you can. Speak to neighbours and look for signs of flooding or existing occupation.
5. Verify the seller
Confirm that the person selling has the right to sell: the family head, the developer’s company registration, or a valid power of attorney.
6. Review the developer’s track record
For estates and off-plan projects, visit something the developer has already delivered.
7. Use a lawyer experienced in Lagos real estate
Your lawyer should review the contract of sale and the deed of assignment before you pay. We coordinate everything they need.
We do not advise anyone to buy property in Lagos — or anywhere — without detailed due diligence from an independent source.
