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:

🚧 Avoid lands that:

🔍 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:

  1. Buy based on word of mouth
  2. Trust omo-onile (local landowners) without verification
  3. Accept only a survey and receipt
  4. Ignore government acquisition status
  5. 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:

  1. What title does it have?
  2. Can I verify it at the right government office?
  3. 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

When it comes to building long-term wealth, few investment strategies are as reliable and effective as land banking. For beginners, understanding the value of land as an investment can be the first step toward financial growth and stability. This guide explains what land banking is and how it can become a powerful tool for securing your financial future.

What is Land Banking?

Land banking involves purchasing undeveloped land with the goal of holding onto it for several years to allow its value to appreciate. The strategy often focuses on areas with strong growth potential, such as emerging suburbs, locations near future infrastructure developments, or places where urban expansion is inevitable.

Unlike stocks or more volatile investments, land typically increases in value steadily over time, making it an attractive option for those who prefer a more secure, long-term investment.

Why Land Banking is a Smart Investment

  1. Appreciation in Value
    Land values generally rise over time, especially in regions undergoing urbanization and development. By purchasing land early, you stand to benefit from its appreciation, often at a significant margin compared to your initial investment.
  2. Limited Supply, Increasing Demand
    Land is a finite resource. As the population grows and cities expand, the demand for land rises, driving prices upward. By securing land in developing areas, you position yourself to capitalize on this future demand.
  3. Low Maintenance Investment
    One of the key advantages of land banking is its low-maintenance nature. Unlike rental properties, which may require ongoing repairs or tenant management, land ownership incurs minimal upkeep costs, making it an ideal investment for those looking for a hands-off approach.
  4. Flexibility in Future Use
    Whether you choose to hold onto your land, develop it, or sell it, land banking offers flexibility. You can lease your land for agriculture or other purposes while waiting for its value to appreciate, or sell it at a profit when development in the area increases demand.

Take Advantage of Pre-October 1 Prices

BONA FORTUNA ESTATE

At Round Peg Homes, we’re currently offering land at Bona Fortuna and Sola Fide Estates, two prime locations in Epe with high growth potential. However, due to increasing demand and rapid development in these areas, we’ll be adjusting our land prices on October 1, 2024.

Bona Fortuna Estate offers:

Meanwhile, at Sola Fide Estate, the prices will increase from:

This is your best opportunity to secure your plot before the price hike. Act now to maximize your returns by investing at a lower cost.

How to Get Started with Land Banking

  1. Identify Strategic Locations
    Look for regions showing strong potential for future development. Areas like Epe, for example, are rapidly developing due to new infrastructure projects, making them ideal for land banking investments.
  2. Work with Reputable Developers
    Protect your investment by working with trusted developers who offer land with clear titles and no legal complications. At Round Peg Homes, we ensure that all our properties are free from disputes and are strategically located for long-term appreciation.
  3. Plan for Long-Term Growth
    Land banking is a long-term investment. Patience is key as the value of your land appreciates over time. The longer you hold onto the land, the higher the potential for significant returns.
  4. Consider Flexible Payment Plans
    Many land banking opportunities come with flexible payment options. Round Peg Homes offers plans that make it easy to get started on your journey toward land ownership, even if you’re working within a budget.

Conclusion: Start Your Land Banking Journey Today

Land banking is a proven wealth-building strategy that offers long-term security and growth. By purchasing land in developing areas, holding onto it, and allowing it to appreciate, you’ll be positioning yourself for financial success.

The time to act is now. Secure your plot with Round Peg Homes before October 1, 2024, and take advantage of our current pricing. Whether you’re looking to build wealth or secure a legacy for future generations, land banking is a key step in achieving long-term financial stability.