Purchasing land in Nigeria, especially in fast-growing areas like Lagos and Epe, is one of the smartest investment decisions you can make. However, many unsuspecting buyers have been defrauded because they didn’t understand land titles—the single most important factor that determines legal ownership of land.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, this blog will help you confidently navigate land titles in Nigeria, avoid costly mistakes, and secure your investment.

📖 Want to understand how to start investing even with little capital? Learn how to start your property journey with just N3m or N12m

✅ What is a Land Title?

A land title is an official document that proves ownership or legal right to use a piece of land. It defines who owns the land and the status of that land in the eyes of the government. Without a proper title, you could end up buying land that doesn’t belong to the seller or land that is under government acquisition.

Think of a land title as the “birth certificate” or “passport” of the land—without it, ownership is highly questionable.

🧠 Understand the legal aspects of real estate in Nigeria

📜 Common Land Titles in Lagos and Nigeria

Here are the most common types of land titles you’ll encounter:

1. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
• Issued by: State Government
• Meaning: The highest form of land ownership for 99 years under Nigerian law.
• Security: Very strong title.

2. Gazette
• Issued by: State Government
• Meaning: Government officially releases land to communities.
• Security: Safe if genuine. Can lead to processing for C of O.

3. Excision
• Issued by: State Government
• Meaning: Legal release of land from government acquisition.
• Security: Secure when verified and gazetted.

4. Governor’s Consent
• Meaning: Approval required when a property changes hands after a C of O has been issued.
• Security: Confirms legality of property transaction.

5. Registered Deed of Assignment
• Meaning: Legal agreement of property transfer.
• Security: Must be registered with the Land Registry to be valid.

🧾 Also read: Pre-construction approvals and building permits in Lagos

🛡 What Title Means Secure Land Ownership?

If you want peace of mind, focus on lands with:

C of O – Recognized by banks and courts.
Governor’s Consent – Key for resale and financing.
Gazetted Excision – Especially in emerging areas like Epe.
Registered Title – Must be recorded in the land registry.

🚧 Avoid lands that:

Are under government acquisition
Have no excision
Only come with receipt and survey plan

🔍 How to Verify Each Land Title

Verifying a land title protects you from fraud:

1. C of O – Check at the Land Registry (e.g., Alausa in Lagos)
2. Gazette/Excision – Verify at the Surveyor-General’s Office
3. Governor’s Consent – Confirm registration at Land Registry
4. Deed of Assignment – Ensure stamping and registry entry

💡 Not sure how to verify titles or locations? Read How to buy property in Nigeria as a diaspora

⚠ Real-Life Mistakes Buyers Make

Many buyers fall into traps because they:

Buy based on word of mouth
Trust omo-onile (local landowners) without verification
Accept only a survey and receipt
Ignore government acquisition status
Confuse estate layout with legal ownership

🧠 Real Case:
A buyer once bought 4 plots in Epe with only a “receipt.” Months later, it was discovered the land was under government acquisition, and he lost N10 million.

👀 Don’t be a victim. Learn about smart investment strategies

👇 Final Thoughts

Before you buy land, ask:

What title does it have?
Can I verify it at the right government office?
Will this title protect my investment in the future?

The Nigerian real estate market offers huge opportunities but also serious risks. Breaking the myth: Real estate is not just for the rich

With proper title verification, you secure your money, future, and peace of mind.

🧭 Need Help?

At Round Peg Homes, we only deal with titled lands and provide verified documentation. We also guide you through due diligence and legal verification.

📞 Call/WhatsApp: +2349110937952
🌐 Website: www.roundpeghomes.com
📍 Visit us: 40, Ibrahim Odofin Street, Peaceville Estate, Idado, Lekki Peninsula II

📖 Related Reads

Unlocking the Goldmine: How the Right Location Can Skyrocket Your Property Investment in Lagos

When it comes to real estate investment, there’s one factor that can make or break your success: Location. In a city as dynamic and rapidly evolving as Lagos, the right location is more than just a choice—it’s the key to unlocking substantial returns on your investment.

The Power of Prime Locations:

In Lagos, the real estate market is a goldmine waiting to be tapped, but only if you know where to dig. Established areas like Ikoyi and Victoria Island have long been coveted, but they come with premium price tags. Meanwhile, emerging areas such as Epe and Ibeju-Lekki are quickly becoming the new frontiers for savvy investors. These locations offer affordable entry points with the promise of exponential growth

Why Location is the Real Game-Changer:

Infrastructure and Development:
The first sign of a goldmine in real estate is infrastructure development. When an area is earmarked for new roads, bridges, or commercial centers, property values tend to skyrocket. For instance, Epe’s infrastructure boom—including new roads, bridges, and the proposed international airport—has made it one of the hottest spots for investment in Lagos.

Proximity to Economic Hubs:
Locations near major economic hubs—like the Lekki Free Trade Zone or Alaro City—tend to appreciate faster. These areas attract businesses, create jobs, and drive up demand for housing. Investing in such locations means positioning yourself for substantial returns as the area grows.

Community and Lifestyle:
A great location isn’t just about infrastructure; it’s also about the lifestyle it offers. Safe neighborhoods, quality schools, recreational facilities, and access to cultural landmarks all contribute to a location’s desirability. These factors not only enhance your property’s value but also make it more attractive to potential buyers or renters.

Case in Point: The Epe Transformation

Take Epe, for example. Once a quiet town on the outskirts of Lagos, Epe has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. With ongoing infrastructure projects and increasing investor interest, property values in Epe have soared. Investors who entered the market early are now reaping the rewards, with land prices appreciating by over 300% in some cases.

How Round Peg Homes Can Help You Strike Gold:

At Round Peg Homes, we understand that location is everything. That’s why we focus on identifying high-potential areas in Lagos, ensuring our clients get the best possible return on their investments. Whether you’re looking to invest in a plot of land in a fast-growing area like Epe or a premium property in Lekki, we provide the expert guidance you need to make informed decisions.

Conclusion:

In the world of real estate, choosing the right location is akin to striking gold. It’s the difference between a modest return and a life-changing investment. By focusing on infrastructure development, proximity to economic hubs, and lifestyle factors, you can unlock the full potential of your property investment in Lagos.

Call to Action: Ready to discover your goldmine in Lagos? Contact Round Peg Homes today, and let us guide you to the perfect location that will skyrocket your property investment.