How to Verify a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) in Nigeria

The Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is one of the most important documents in Nigerian real estate. Issued by the state government, it grants the holder a legal right to occupy and use a parcel of land for a defined term, and it is a key signal that a property's title is sound.

Before buying, you should verify that the C of O is genuine and that it relates to the exact property you intend to purchase.

Why the C of O matters

• It evidences a recognised legal interest in the land.
• It reduces the risk of buying disputed or improperly acquired land.
• It is often required for financing and for future resale.

How to verify a C of O

1. Obtain a copy of the C of O and the property's survey plan from the seller.
2. Engage a property lawyer. A competent lawyer will lead the verification and interpret the findings.
3. Conduct a search at the state Land Registry. In Lagos, for example, searches are conducted through the state lands bureau. The search confirms whether the title exists, who the registered owner is, the term granted, and whether there are encumbrances such as a mortgage, caveat or government interest.
4. Confirm the survey plan matches the land on the ground, and check for any government acquisition or committed status where relevant.
5. Cross-check the details, owner's name, plot description and survey coordinates, against the registry records.

Red flags to watch for

• A seller reluctant to provide documents or allow a search.
• Discrepancies between the C of O, the survey plan and the physical land.
• Land within a government acquisition that has not been properly excised or regularised.

A note

Property law and the exact verification steps vary by state and can change over time. This article is general guidance, not legal advice, always engage a qualified Nigerian property lawyer to carry out due diligence on any specific transaction.