How to Buy a House in Lagos, Nigeria: Complete Legal Guide (2025)

By the Real Estate Law Team at O.I.D. Legal Consult

Buying property in Lagos is a significant investment, but without the proper legal steps, that investment could be at risk. The process of buying a house in Lagos, Nigeria requires careful legal due diligence, documentation, and title perfection—most of which must be handled or supervised by qualified legal professionals.

This comprehensive guide outlines the key legal stages involved in purchasing a property in Lagos, ensuring the buyer obtains valid and enforceable ownership.

🏡 Key Legal Steps in Buying Property in Lagos

1. Physical Inspection of the Property

Once you've identified a property, the first step is to physically inspect it, either in person or through a trusted representative. This helps to:

• Confirm that the property is vacant and available for sale

• Spot visible structural issues or red flags

• Detect warning signs (e.g., “This land is not for sale” notices) that suggest potential disputes

2. Conduct a Property Title Search

Title verification is one of the most important steps in real estate transactions in Lagos. Many properties may lack registered titles but can still be valid for purchase. A title search will:

• Confirm the seller’s ownership

• Reveal any encumbrances (mortgages, caveats, pending litigation)

• Identify whether the seller has the legal right to transfer the property

This investigation is done at the Lagos State Land Registry and may involve reviewing root title documents such as surveys, deeds, or court judgments.

3. Draft and Sign a Contract of Sale (Where Applicable)

When the purchase price is to be paid in installments, a Contract of Sale is essential. This agreement sets out:

• The total purchase price

• Payment timelines

• The seller’s obligations during the transaction

• A clause preventing resale to third parties during the installment period

If the buyer pays the full price upfront and receives all required documentation immediately, a contract may be waived in favor of a Deed of Assignment.

4. Draft and Execute the Deed of Assignment

The Deed of Assignment is the core legal instrument that transfers ownership of the property from the seller (Assignor) to the buyer (Assignee). It:

• Details the property description

• Indicates the history or root of title

• States the consideration (price)

• Becomes effective subject to Governor’s Consent under the Land Use Act 1978

5. Register the Title and Obtain Governor’s Consent

To perfect title, the buyer must:

• Stamp the Deed with the Stamp Duties Office

• Apply for and obtain the Governor’s Consent as required under Section 22 of the Land Use Act 1978

• Register the title at the Lagos State Land Registry

This formalizes the buyer’s ownership and provides public notice of the transaction.

📄 Key Title Documents for Properties in Lagos

Understanding the different property title documents in Nigeria is crucial when conducting due diligence. Below are some of the most common:

1. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)

Confirms that the holder has legal rights over the land for up to 99 years, as issued by the state government.

2. Deed of Assignment

Transfers ownership of property from one person to another.

3. Deed of Conveyance

Used primarily for land transactions before the Land Use Act came into effect in 1978.

4. Deed of Gift

Used to transfer land or property without monetary compensation.

5. Power of Attorney

Authorizes another person to act on the property owner’s behalf in legal transactions.

6. Survey Plan

Shows the land’s boundaries, size, and location. It must be prepared by a licensed surveyor.

7. Contract of Sale

Outlines the sale terms when payment is to be made in tranches. It is not a title document on its own.

8. Grant of Probate

Issued when the deceased left a valid will. Grants legal power to executors to manage and transfer estate property.

9. Letter of Administration

Granted when someone dies intestate (without a will). It authorizes administrators to distribute the estate.

10. Deed of Assent

Used by executors/administrators to legally transfer property to heirs or beneficiaries.

11. Judgment of Court

May serve as valid proof of ownership in cases where ownership was determined through legal proceedings.

🛡️ Why You Need a Lawyer for Property Transactions in Lagos

Property law in Lagos is complex and fraught with risks. Only licensed legal practitioners can:

• Interpret title documents

• Conduct lawful searches

• Draft enforceable Deeds of Assignment

• Ensure all consents and registrations are lawfully obtained

Attempting to bypass legal representation exposes buyers to fraud, void transactions, or disputed ownership.

📌 Conclusion

Buying a house in Lagos is not just a financial decision—it’s a legal transaction that must follow due process under Nigerian property law. From inspection to Governor’s Consent and registration, each step must be meticulously completed to secure good title and prevent future disputes.

Whether you're a first-time buyer or seasoned investor, always consult an experienced real estate lawyer in Nigeria to safeguard your purchase.

📞 Need Help Buying Property in Lagos?

The Real Estate Law Team at O.I.D. Legal Consult offers full legal support for:

• Property due diligence

• Title verification

• Drafting & execution of sale contracts

• Governor’s consent & title registration

• Land dispute resolution

📧oidlegalconsult@gmail.com 📱 +2348168868476 (Call or WhatsApp)

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