Buying land in Lagos is one of the smartest investments you can make in Nigeria — but it's also one of the riskiest if you're not careful. From fake landowners to double-sold plots and missing documents, many people have lost millions due to land scams.
This 2025 guide gives you everything you need to know about buying land safely in Lagos — with zero regrets and no scams. Whether you're a first-time buyer or an investor, follow this guide step-by-step.
Step-by-Step Process to Buy Land Safely in Lagos
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1️⃣ | Identify a genuine and verifiable land/property |
| 2️⃣ | Conduct a thorough physical inspection |
| 3️⃣ | Request and verify all land documents |
| 4️⃣ | Hire a real estate lawyer (not just a friend or agent) |
| 5️⃣ | Conduct land verification at the Lagos State Land Registry |
| 6️⃣ | Negotiate the price & payment structure |
| 7️⃣ | Sign formal agreements with all necessary parties |
| 8️⃣ | Register your title & obtain the proper legal ownership (C of O, etc.) |
Red Flags That Mean You Might Get Scammed
| ❌ Red Flag | ⚠️ Why It’s Dangerous |
|---|---|
| Seller refuses land inspection | Plot may not exist or may be waterlogged |
| No valid land documents | Likely government land or under dispute |
| Price is too good to be true | Might be in a “no-go” zone or has been resold |
| They ask you to “rush payment” | Typical of fraudsters looking to flee fast |
| Seller discourages lawyer use | Means they want to hide something from you |
Key Land Documents You Must Verify in Lagos
| Document | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) | Confirms legal ownership recognized by Lagos government |
| Deed of Assignment | Transfers ownership from seller to buyer |
| Survey Plan | Describes land location and dimensions legally |
| Gazette | Shows the land has been officially excised by government |
| Governor’s Consent | Required for resale or assignment of land |
| Receipt of Payment | Legal proof of the transaction between buyer and seller |
Tip: Always confirm the authenticity of these documents at the Lagos State Land Registry before making payment.
Types of Land in Lagos and Their Meanings
| Land Type | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Free Land | Land with no government acquisition — safest to buy |
| Gazette Land | Land excised by government and listed in official gazette |
| Excision in Process | Land with excision application pending — riskier |
| Government Acquisition | Do not buy unless later regularized — risky and illegal |
| Committed Land | Never buy! Used for government projects like roads, etc. |
Top Places to Buy Land in Lagos (2025 Safe Zones)
| Area | Avg. Price per Plot (2025) | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Ibeju-Lekki | ₦2M – ₦20M+ | Growing tech zone, close to Lekki Deep Port |
| Epe | ₦1.5M – ₦10M | Affordable & developing fast |
| Ajah | ₦15M – ₦50M+ | Mid-upscale area with road access |
| Lekki Phase II | ₦30M – ₦80M+ | Prime residential + commercial zone |
| Ikorodu | ₦2M – ₦15M | Budget-friendly with road access |
Always check whether land is facing the road, close to development, or within government-acquired territory.
Why You Must Use a Real Estate Lawyer
Using a lawyer may seem like an extra cost, but it’s your best protection.
| What Your Lawyer Will Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Verify all documents | Prevents fraud or illegal land transactions |
| Check for litigation or encumbrance | Ensures land is not under dispute |
| Draft & review your deed of assignment | Legalizes ownership transfer |
| File your land documents with Lagos authorities | Secures your legal title |
Costs to Expect When Buying Land in Lagos
| Item | Estimated Cost (2025) |
|---|---|
| Land Purchase Price | Varies by location (₦1.5M–₦80M+) |
| Legal & Documentation Fees | 5%–10% of land cost |
| Survey Plan | ₦200,000 – ₦500,000+ |
| Deed of Assignment Drafting | ₦50,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Title Registration (C of O) | ₦500,000 – ₦1.5M+ depending on size |
Final Tips to Avoid Being Scammed
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Don’t rush. Any land deal that feels like a “now or never” is a red flag.
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Always inspect land in person. Take photos, ask neighbors questions.
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Never pay in cash or to personal accounts. Always use traceable channels.
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Check land coordinates at the Surveyor General’s Office.
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Insist on a signed contract and receipts.
Conclusion
Buying land in Lagos doesn’t have to be a nightmare — if you’re well-informed and take your time. Use this 2025 guide as your blueprint to buy land with peace of mind and zero regrets. Whether it’s for building your home, starting a business, or investing, you can do it legally, safely, and smartly.
