[30 October 2026]
Buying land in Nigeria comes with a stack of papers, and many buyers sign without knowing what each one proves. Here is what you should receive, and why it matters.
Payment receipt
Proof that you paid, how much and when. Always ask for a receipt from the company, showing the company's name and the account you paid into. Keep every receipt if you pay in instalments.
Allocation letter
Confirms which specific plot is yours: the estate, the block and the plot number. Without it, you have paid for 'a plot' but not this plot. A good developer allocates as soon as the agreed payment is made.
Contract of sale and acknowledgement letter
The contract sets out the terms of the sale: price, plot, payment plan and what happens if either side does not keep their side. An acknowledgement letter confirms the developer has received your payment and your purchase is recorded.
Deed of assignment (or deed of transfer)
The deed is the document that transfers ownership of the land from the seller to you. It should name both parties, describe the land and be signed and witnessed. This is the document you will need to register your interest with the state.
Survey plan
A survey plan is a drawing made by a registered surveyor that shows the exact shape, size and location of your plot, fixed by beacons on the ground and coordinates on the map. It is how you prove where your land starts and ends.
A survey plan should be in your name. A provisional survey from the developer is a good start; a registered survey plan is stronger.
Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
Under the Land Use Act, land in a state is held by the state government, which grants rights to occupy it. A C of O is the government's grant of that right. 'C of O in view' means the developer is processing one for the estate.
When you later sell land that has a C of O, the buyer will usually need the Governor's consent to complete the transfer.
A simple checklist
Before you finish paying, ask the seller which of these you will get, and when:
- Receipt
- Allocation letter
- Contract of sale
- Deed of assignment or transfer
- Survey plan in your name
- Title status (C of O, or C of O in view)
