"The documents are what separate a legitimate transaction from a very expensive lesson."
Property fraud in Nigeria almost always succeeds for the same reason: the buyer or tenant did not ask for the right documents — or accepted photographs instead of originals.
These are the seven documents that must be produced before you hand over any money.
1. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
The C of O is the highest form of land title in Nigeria. It is issued by the state government and confirms the occupier has a legal right to the land. The name on the C of O must match the person claiming to be the owner. If it does not, ask for a deed of assignment showing how ownership transferred.
2. Deed of Assignment
If the current owner bought the property from someone else, the deed of assignment documents that transfer. It must be signed, witnessed, stamped by the Stamp Duties Office, and registered at the Land Registry. An unregistered deed offers limited legal protection.
3. Survey Plan
A survey plan is a technical drawing of the land prepared by a licensed surveyor. It shows exact boundaries and confirms the land is not on government-acquired territory. Ask a licensed surveyor to verify the coordinates match the actual property location.
4. Governor's Consent
When a property with a C of O is sold, the new owner must obtain the Governor's Consent to the transfer. Without it, the transaction is legally incomplete. This is frequently skipped — and frequently exploited.
5. Building Plan Approval
Confirmed by the relevant development authority. It verifies the structure was legally approved before construction. Properties built without approval can be marked for demolition regardless of who currently occupies them.
6. Tax Clearance Certificate
Confirms the landlord has no outstanding property tax liabilities that could be transferred to or affect a new tenant. Ask for the most recent three years.
7. Landlord's Valid ID
A national ID, international passport, or driver's licence — matching the name on the title document. If the names do not match, stop. Do not proceed until you understand why.
On Propabridge, all seven of these are checked before a listing goes live. You can view title document confirmations before you ever contact an agent.
Search verified listings at propabridge.com — no inspection fees, full document transparency.
