Knowing the different types of land titles in Nigeria is crucial for anyone interested in real estate investment. Each land title carries specific legal rights that affect ownership, security, and the ease of transferring property. To protect your investment, Zoyols Realtors advises prospective buyers to understand the common land titles and their unique implications for property ownership.

1. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
   The Certificate of Occupancy, often called C of O, is a key document issued by the state government granting the holder the right to use the land for 99 years. This title confirms the government’s allocation of the property to the owner, providing a high level of security. Because of this, C of O titles are highly valued in the Nigerian real estate market, reducing risks related to ownership disputes and making properties with C of O attractive for buyers and investors.

2. Governor’s Consent
   When transferring land already issued a Certificate of Occupancy, obtaining the Governor’s Consent is legally required. This document validates the government’s approval of the property transfer between parties, ensuring the sale is official and enforceable. Without Governor’s Consent, even a property with a C of O cannot be legally sold. Zoyols Realtors stresses that securing this consent is vital for anyone seeking to buy property or land in Nigeria.

3. Deed of Assignment
   A Deed of Assignment is a critical legal document evidencing the transfer of ownership rights from the seller to the buyer. While not a standalone land title, it accompanies other official documents like the C of O or Governor’s Consent to complete the sale process. Zoyols Realtors helps clients obtain authenticated Deeds of Assignment to protect against future ownership disputes, ensuring smooth transactions in real estate sales.

4. Freehold Land Titles
   In some rural and suburban regions of Nigeria, land may be owned under Freehold Titles, granting perpetual ownership rights without time restrictions. Owners can use, transfer, or develop the land freely. However, freehold lands may lack a government-issued Certificate of Occupancy, which calls for extra caution. Zoyols Realtors recommends thorough verification and due diligence to confirm that freehold properties are free of claims or encumbrances before purchase.

5. Excision and Gazette
   Excision refers to the government formally releasing a parcel of land from state ownership, allowing it to be privately owned or managed by communities. Land excised by the government is recorded in the official Gazette, which serves as public confirmation of its status. Properties backed by an excision or Gazette are considered safer investments. Zoyols Realtors advises prioritizing land with these documents to ensure legality and minimize risks in real estate acquisitions.

6. Survey Plan
   Though not a title itself, a Survey Plan is an essential document that defines the exact boundaries and size of a property. It is crucial for confirming property location and ensuring it does not encroach on government-restricted areas. Zoyols Realtors guarantees that properties listed come with accurate survey plans, protecting buyers from purchasing land in unapproved or disputed zones.

7. Customary Land Titles
   Customary Titles are granted by traditional or local authorities and are generally respected within communities. However, they lack the full legal backing that government-recognized titles provide. For lasting security, converting customary land to a Certificate of Occupancy or another formal title is advisable. Zoyols Realtors offers expert support to help investors convert customary land titles into legally recognized ownership documents.

Each type of land title in Nigeria comes with distinct rights and responsibilities. Understanding these nuances empowers property buyers to make well-informed decisions that protect their investment. Zoyols Realtors remains dedicated to guiding clients through every step, ensuring property purchases are backed by clear, legally sound titles. With this knowledge, buyers can confidently navigate the Nigerian real estate market and secure ownership of their ideal properties.