Land Verification Process in Nigeria: A Step-by-Step Guide
Land fraud remains a serious problem in Nigeria. It has cost Nigerians $4 billion annually, that’s why knowing the land verification process in Nigeria is essential before buying. This guide outlines proven steps to help you verify land documents in Nigeria and protect your investment.
Why Land Verification Matters in Nigeria
- Land title fraud includes duplicate sales, fake Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), and Omonile (land lord) scams
- Formal documentation is rare, only 3% of land titles are valid .
- Strong verification builds trust and prevents long legal battles.
Step‑by‑Step Land Verification Process in Nigeria
1. Confirm Land Ownership Status
Determine if the land is privately owned, community-held, or government-allocated. Research local land rights, especially in rural areas
2. Conduct Title Search at Land Registry
Visit the state Land Registry to perform a formal title search. Expect 5–14 days (varies by state), and check for:
- Registered owner
- Encumbrances (mortgages, litigations, govt acquisition)
3. Verify Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
Check authenticity by matching the C of O number and owner’s name at the registry. Ensure it’s active and not government-revoked
4. Authenticate Survey Plan
Get the document cleared by the Office of the Surveyor-General. Then, bring a licensed surveyor onsite to confirm boundary markers align with documented survey coordinates and beacons
5. Obtain Governor’s Consent
Under the Land Use Act (1978), any land transfer requires the Governor’s Consent. Processing can take 3–12 months, but it’s compulsory for legal ownership
6. Run Court/Encumbrance Search
Use registry and local courts to ensure the land isn’t under litigation or pending suits, a step most buyers often overlooks.
7. Verify the Seller’s Identity
Match seller’s name on titles with their ID; be cautious of middlemen scams. Confirm you’re dealing with the real owner
8. Hire Professionals (Lawyer + Surveyor)
Engage a reputable property lawyer and licensed surveyor to assist with verification, title checks, and legal documentation
9. Field Inspection & Community Checks
Visit the site, speak to neighbors or community leaders to detect informal claims or encroachment risks
10. Finalize Registration
Once all clear, complete the sale agreement, and register the land in your name at the Land Registry to formalize ownership
Popular Digital Verification Services
1. LandSafe
- Provides digital verification (title, survey, field check, encumbrance)
- Fast reports (24–48 hrs) in Lagos, Abuja, Ogun
2. Nigerian Land Record Verification Service (NLVRS)
- Connects you with certified experts across Nigeria, offers multi-document checks, field inspections, and state-wide coverage
3. Land.ng Verification
- Uses legal professionals, surveyors, and local authorities to verify ownership, title, coordinates, and encumbrances
These services streamline the land verification process in Nigeria, offering peace of mind especially for remote and diaspora buyers.
Tips to Avoid Scam
- Always use verified professionals – even reputed agents may be part of frauds
- Pay for Encumbrance Certificate (EC) search at registry.
- Secure Governor’s Consent, a legal must-have.
- Never skip onsite visits and community interviews.
Conclusion
To safely verify land in Nigeria, follow these key steps: registry searches, C of O and survey authentication, legal review, field inspection, and final registration. Use professional help and digital platforms to strengthen due diligence.
By taking these precautions in the land verification process in Nigeria, you not only secure your investment but also avoid costly legal pitfalls. Start your verification today for certainty and confidence in your land purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does land verification take?
Typically 4–8 weeks; digital platforms may deliver results in 24–48 hours.
2. What’s an Encumbrance Certificate?
It shows land is clear of liabilities mortgages, court suits, acquisitions.
3. Can I self-verify?
Yes, but hiring a property lawyer and licensed surveyor is strongly advised.