Buying land in Nigeria can be one of the smartest investments you’ll ever make. However, it can also become a costly mistake if proper steps are not taken. Every year, many buyers lose money due to poor verification, fake sellers, and lack of understanding of Nigeria’s land system.
Whether you are a first-time buyer or an investor, knowing the common mistakes people make when buying land in Nigeria can help you avoid legal problems, financial loss, and stress.
In this article, we highlight the top 10 mistakes and explain how you can avoid them.
1. Buying Land Without Proper Verification
One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is paying for land without verifying its status. Many people rely solely on the seller’s word or basic receipts.
Before buying any land, always:
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Verify ownership
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Confirm land is not under government acquisition
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Check survey plans
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Verify title documents
Skipping verification can lead to total loss of your investment.
2. Ignoring Land Title Documents
Some buyers assume that possession or receipts are enough proof of ownership. In Nigeria, this is not true.
Proper land documents such as C of O, Governor’s Consent, Deed of Assignment, and Survey Plan are critical. Without them, you may not legally own the land.
Always ask:
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What title does the land have?
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Is it verifiable with the government?
3. Buying Government-Acquired Land
Buying land under government acquisition is one of the fastest ways to lose your money. Such lands may be demolished or reclaimed by the government at any time.
Always confirm whether the land:
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Is free from acquisition
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Has excision or government approval
A registered surveyor or professional can help verify this.
4. Trusting Unverified Agents or Middlemen
Many buyers fall victim to fake agents posing as landowners or representatives. Some agents sell the same land to multiple buyers.
To avoid this:
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Work with a reputable real estate company
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Avoid cash payments to unknown individuals
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Insist on documentation
5. Not Using a Lawyer or Professional
Trying to save money by avoiding professional help often leads to bigger losses. A qualified lawyer or real estate professional can help you identify red flags early.
Professional guidance ensures:
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Proper documentation
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Legal compliance
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Secure transactions
6. Paying Before Completing Due Diligence
Some buyers make full payment before verifying documents or land status. Once money changes hands, recovery becomes difficult.
Always:
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Verify first
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Pay later
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Use traceable payment methods
Never rush because of pressure or fear of losing the deal.
7. Buying Land Without Survey Confirmation
A survey plan confirms the exact size, location, and boundaries of the land. Without it, you may face disputes with neighbors or discover the land is smaller than expected.
Ensure:
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Survey plan matches the land
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Survey is registered and verifiable
8. Failing to Process Documentation After Purchase
Buying land is not complete until documentation is processed. Many buyers delay documentation, leaving their ownership vulnerable.
After purchase:
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Process Deed of Assignment
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Apply for Governor’s Consent
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Secure your ownership legally
9. Buying Land in a Poor Location Without Research
Cheap land is attractive, but poor location can reduce future value and usability.
Consider:
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Road access
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Infrastructure
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Security
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Future development plans
Research before buying.
10. Not Working With a Trusted Real Estate Company
Trying to handle everything alone increases risk. A trusted real estate company helps guide you, verify properties, and protect your interests.
At Estate Informant, we prioritize transparency, verification, and client education to help buyers make safe land investments.
Buying land in Nigeria is not risky when done correctly. Most land-related losses happen because buyers make avoidable mistakes.
The key is education, patience, verification, and professional guidance.
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