Real Estate Archives

How to Buy Land in Nigeria While Living Abroad

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to buy land in Nigeria while living abroad with no legal trouble attached.

For all the 17 million+ Nigerians who live abroad today, there is still no place like home to them.

This is why they always want to buy land back at home so they can either build their dream houses or simply buy for investment purposes.

But while many are confident in the real estate system, many are still scared because of the fear of distance, scams, and documentation.

I have been in the real estate space for years now, and I have noticed one thing that is always happening: people are not happy when they lose their hard-earned money to silly stuff like scams.

In this article, I will show you

8 perfect steps on how to buy land in Nigeria while living abroad with no legal trouble attached.
What you should know before you even start buying land at all
Mistakes you must avoid when buying land

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Buy Land in Nigeria While Living Abroad

1. Define Your Purpose

The first thing you must do before you start even looking for land to buy is to ask yourself: Why really do I want to buy land?

If you are doing it because your friends are doing it, you don’t have a reason yet

If you are doing it because a real estate agent texted you online, you don't have a reason yet

If you are doing it because your spouse forces you to, you still don't have a reason yet

There are different reasons why you can buy land in Nigeria…

You can buy to sell later (investment)
You can buy so you can settle with your family
You can buy just because you want to have land in Nigeria (nationalism)

Your reasons will determine every other thing you want to do. It will define

Where you buy land
How much your land will be
The type of title you will collect on he land
The type of investment structure you need to build to gain profit

After defining your purpose, then you can go on to the next stage.

2. Research & Shortlist Locations

After zoning down to your reason for buying land, you need to start researching the kind of land that matches your reasons.

For instance, if you want to buy for settlement reasons, you should go for areas that are not so noisy or overpopulated.

On the other hand, if you want to build a shopping complex or a gym, what you should be looking for is an exposed area that people can easily locate.

Have you noticed that all iPaul gyms and most shopping complexes are always by the roadside?

For residential properties, these are some great places you can still buy land:

Omu-Ketu in Ogun
Ogijo in Ikorodu, Lagos
Mowe in Ogun State
Sagamu in Ogun
Badagry in Lagos

But if you are looking for properties for commercial and industrial locations, go for places like

Epe, Lagos
Gwarimpa, Abuja
Port Harcourt
Ota, Ogun State

After you select your location, you can then search online for the average cost of land in that location. That will help you start preparing your budget.

3. Find a Reliable Real Estate Company or Agent

After preparing your budget, you should start looking for a real estate company or agent.

This is where you need to start being very careful… There are numerous options available online, so it's essential to be discerning when selecting the one you want to work with.

There are 4 simple secrets you should know when choosing a real estate company

Check Their CAC Registration

This is very easy to do. Just go to this website and check and search for the company. If they are not on the list, then they are very likely to be fake.

Read Google Reviews

Do this when you are dealing with a very big company. People would have spoken about them online, and you can see everything at a glance.

When you search for their company online, just click the company profile and see the rating from people. Go for the lower-rated stars and see what people have complained about.

Verify Social Media Pages

Many companies just want to take your money and run. One of the features of companies like this is that they may not build a very good social media presence.

Look for the company owner’s profile too and check the activity.

If either the company or its owner is not active online, then it is very likely that they do not have enough experience to make the best decisions for you!

They may not have the right knowledge to bargain for you

They may not have the right experience to choose the right land for you

Check for Physical Addresses

No real company will have only an online presence. They must have a physical location that you can send your lawyer to visit.

The reason you need to check for these 4 things is so that you can know who to arrest and use in court if any legal battle ever arises in the future. Many people today lose their land over not being able to properly sue the “company” they bought land from.

4. Conduct Virtual Land Inspection

You must do a live tour of the land you want to buy to know what you are really into.

You can send your lawyer or a personal surveyor to do this for you. And while they are there, request to see everything via video call to really see how the land looks.

Many people just buy land because “my mummy recommended them”.

But that’s not enough.

If you are buying many acres, ask the company for drone footage of your land. And no matter the size of the property, make sure you get the estate layout and landmarks.

You can also use Google Earth to confirm the coordinates of the land.

5. Verify Land Documents & Title

Since you are abroad, ask for the soft copies of the land document, such as the Survey Plan, Deed of Assignment, Layout Plan, and C of O.

But I will not advise that you take that hook, line, and sinker.

You should hire a real estate lawyer who will verify all the documents for you at the State Land Registry.

This will save you a lot of trouble because Nigeria still does not have a reliable way to verify these documents online fully. You will have to be making calls and calls virtually.

So, just get someone in Nigeria to finish up all the process for you physically.

6. Secure the Land Legally

Draft a Power of Attorney (PoA) to legally allow a trusted person or lawyer to act on your behalf in Nigeria. I will always suggest that you make this trusted person your lawyer or a legal firm.

Legal firms and lawyers are usually more trustworthy and more bonded by contract than a “cousin” here in Nigeria, who may sell your land and not give you any returns!

Also, notarize your land for additional legal backing. This protects you when any transaction is made on your land illegally.

7. Make Payment Safely

If you will pay for your land, ensure that you use only secure payment channels like Flutterwave, Paystack, or direct transfer to the developer’s corporate account.

Make sure that you request all signed receipts and payment acknowledgments from your lawyer here in Nigeria.

Always keep all copies of your virtual and physical receipts- they are the only evidence of your payment.

8. Fence & Secure the Land

Hire a local caretaker to monitor the land so that people won’t just come and start building on it.

Also, fence it around as soon as possible to prevent encroachment.

Ensure that you get weekly updates on how things are going with the construction on the land. Request video and picture evidence.

Red Flags You Must Avoid When Dealing with a Real Estate Company

1. Rushing You To Pay Up

When a company is rushing you to just pay money without even taking time to explain what you want to buy, that’s a big red flag. Don’t stay with them.

2. Vague Documentation

If a company is not ready to present all the documents to you, don’t buy. Some may present incomplete documents, but don’t buy.

This is why you need a lawyer who will help you verify all the documents a company will bring forward…

You don’t need to be in Nigeria to do this- just use a lawyer.

3. No Proof of Past Allocations

If you check online or ask offline for past land allocation and the company cannot present any evidence, then they are very likely to be fake.

Every company must have an allocation for which they will have social media receipts. Sometimes, they can also show you the company's copy of the land documents.

Documents You Need When Buying Land From Diaspora

Power of Attorney (PoA)

This gives your lawyer or any other representative here in Niger the legal permission to sign documents on your behalf. It should be notarized.

Essential Documents

Some important documents you must get when buying land in Nigeria include the Deed of Assignment, the Survey Plan, the Payment Receipt, and the Estate Layout Plan.

Diaspora-Friendly Locations

Here are the most sought-after locations in Nigeria by Nigerians in the diaspora…

I have carefully selected these locations because they tend to bring returns to you even when you are not present:

City/Area	Why It’s Ideal	Common Titles
Lekki, Lagos	Fast growth, major infrastructure	Excision, C of O
Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos	Deep Sea Port, Free Trade Zone	Excision, Gazette
Epe, Lagos	Budget-friendly, rapid appreciation	Excision, C of O
Gwarimpa, Abuja	Planned estates, good road networks	C of O
Kuje, Abuja	Emerging hub, proximity to the city	C of O, Allocation
Lugbe, Abuja	Accessible, estate development	Allocation, R of O
Rumuokoro, PH	Oil & gas corridor, urban access	Registered Deed
Ada George, PH	Middle-income housing growth	Deed of Assignment
Mowe, Ogun	Affordable, near Lagos	Freehold, Survey
Ibafo, Ogun	Well-connected, low entry point	Freehold, Gazette

Real-Life Stories of Nigerians Who Successfully Bought Land in Nigeria

Ada, 28, Nurse in Birmingham

Ada, a 28-year-old nurse, started with a monthly plan of ₦350k for land in Mowe. Her uncle in Nigeria signed documents via PoA. Within 6 months, she was allocated two plots.

Today, the land has appreciated by 3x. “I thought distance was the issue,” she says, “but it was really about the right company.”

Femi, 27 – MSc Student in Canada

Femi shared how he used part of his grocery store income in Ontario to start his first investment in land back home.

He said, “I didn’t even think ₦2M could do anything in real estate until my cousin showed me an estate in Lagos offering installment payments.

I paid ₦500k upfront, then spread the rest. It’s been 10 months, and I now have my own plot. It gives me peace to know my money is growing — and not just being spent on Netflix and pizza.”

Chioma, 32 – Midwife Working in the UK

Chioma explained that after losing ₦700k to a fake land agent in 2021, she almost gave up on buying land. But she later said, “A colleague referred me to a verified developer offering land in Omu-Ketu with payment plans.

I started again with ₦200k, this time more carefully. They sent receipts, I verified the title documents, and after 7 months, I got allocated.

It feels like healing. I can finally say I own something solid in Nigeria.”

Common Fears (And How to Handle Them)

Fear	Reality & Solution
Scam/Fraud	Verify the developer with CAC & Land Registry
Omo-onile Problems	Buy only land with a title or land inside an estate
No Allocation	Get timeline in writing, follow up weekly
Hidden Fees	Request all charges up front
Lack of Involvement	Ask for photos, videos & updates monthly

What You Should Do

Are you thinking about how to buy land in Nigeria while living abroad, but you don’t know where to start?

Send us a message @possilaproperties on Instagram today. We’ll guide you into making the right choice that will meet your desires.

Note: You do not need to buy immediately when you contact us.

You just need to start with the basics. Knowledge is the first thing you must have whenever you’re starting to buy land in Nigeria

FAQs on How to Buy Land in Nigeria While Living Abroad

1. Can I buy land in Nigeria without being there physically?

Yes. A Power of Attorney allows you to appoint someone to act legally on your behalf.

2. How much do I need to start?

You can start with as low as ₦200-₦300k if you're using an installment plan.

3. What if I want to invest in Lagos but can’t afford Lekki?

Try locations like Epe or Mowe — these are growing rapidly and are more affordable.

4. How do I know if the land is legit?

Ask for the survey plan and check with the Land Registry. Avoid anything without a visible title.

5. Can I track my investment from abroad?

Yes. Many developers now use dashboards, WhatsApp updates, and share media proofs regularly.

by Tayo Aladetoyinbo

How do I start a real estate investment in Nigeria with 500k or less?

How Do I Start Real Estate Investment in Nigeria with ₦500k or Less?

How to start an investment in Nigeria with 500k or less is a question on the lips of many Nigerians because everybody wants some level of wealth in order to be free financially.

And you may have heard this statement before now: “If you don’t have ₦5 million, forget land.”

That’s a lie - and it is causing many young Nigerians from getting started with owning their own real estate.

It is 2025, and the Nigerian real estate market is expanding so fast.

Because of this, people have come up with different creative ways to enter it without breaking the bank.

With an investment in Nigeria with 500k or even less, you can begin your journey into land ownership — if you know where to look and how to do it smartly.

In this article, I will show you the real possibilities of building your own real estate investment in Nigeria with 500k or less. It also contains

3 Myths around real estate ownership in Nigeria
Step-by-step strategies that real people are using to own land with limited income.

Let’s roll…

Is ₦500k Enough to Start Real Estate Investment in Nigeria?

Yes — ₦500k is more than enough to start, even if it might not be enough to fully pay for a plot in one go.

What matters most is not owning outright on day one, but starting early and getting your heart in the game.

And this has become easier than it used to be back in the day.

For instance, several developers have developed flexible payment plans where you can deposit as low as 300k and pay the balance over 6–12 months.

Some estates in Ibadan, in Oyo State and even in some parts of Ogun State offer genuine plots for under ₦1M, and you can still buy with an installment payment.

While you may not be able to buy a house with such a down payment, there is a lot of land available within that range.

And this is because the land banking system is now very popular. With it, you can buy undeveloped land at low cost, hold it so it can appreciate, and sell it at a higher price in the future.

The 3 Myths That Keep People from Investing Early in Real Estate

Myth 1: “You need millions to buy land.”

That is as untrue as it sounds. There are many verified lands that you can still buy for less than ₦1M, especially if you can buy in emerging zones like Ifo, Ido, and other suburbs in Nigeria.

The key is knowing where to buy and who to buy from.

Myth 2: “Cheap land means fake land.”

Tell that to people who bought “cheap” land in Ikorodu 20+ years ago or in Epe some 6 - 8 years ago.

It is true that a ridiculously low price is one of the best ways to know if a land is fake, especially when it is a high-cost area…

But the reality is that many low-cost estates are real and developing. But you must still verify title documents and inspect the site.

Myth 3: “If I can’t build now, there’s no point.”

The reality about buying real estate, especially land, is that you don't need to build immediately.

You should see the land differently instead. See it as a savings account where your money appreciates faster than the standard savings account.

Besides, you don’t need to buy land only for development reasons… You can buy it to sell later or use it as collateral to finance another business completely.

Myth 4: “I am still young”

The crazy thing about waiting before you buy is that time flies.

Just some years ago, I was in my twenties at the university, and there was this area that was selling for 300,000 back then in Ife.

Fast forward, ten years after around 2018, that same place is flooded with student hostels, and a plot was now selling for over 4 million! We are in 2025- I can’t imagine how much a plot in that place will be now!

Imagine if I had bought 5 acres instead of buying shoes and wristwatches back then!

Practical Ways to Start Real Estate Investment in Nigeria with 500k or Less

As I have mentioned, you can start real estate investment with just 500k or less, but you just need to know how to start.

Here are 4 ways I guarantee can help you start investing easily:

1. Installment Payment Plans (IPPs)

Many trusted real estate development companies now allow monthly payments from as low as ₦75k - ₦300k.

All you need to do is make your deposit, then sign a payment agreement, and spread the balance over 6–18 months.

For instance: Some plots in Ido, Ibadan are currently going for as low as 900k and you can pay a minimum deposit of ₦100k, then spread the rest over 6 months…

2. Land Cooperatives & Real Estate Clubs

This is how many of our parents bought their land. They just joined a Cooperative either at work or in church, and they started to pay for their land in bits.

The great thing about Cooperative is that they have the power to negotiate for high-priced land for a lower price because they are an organisation. Land sellers know that cooperatives hardly ever default on payment, so they trust them more.

You can find a cooperative around you. That way, you can pay for your land in installments with the assurance that your land is secure because you are also buying it with a large group of people.

NOTE of Caution: Only join cooperatives that

Have a history of success with land purchase
Work with licensed surveyors and lawyers

3. Joint Ownership with Family or Friends

See, in life, to do great things, you just have to work with people. Nobody has the power to do it all alone.

This works with real estate investment, too.

If you want to start and you don't have so much money, pair up with a sibling or open a family account. You can also join efforts with friends that you trust.

You all will co-own. So, if the land is 1 million and you are 5, you can pay 200k each.

But with this kind of land, you must have very clear legal agreements showing everybody’s contribution to buy the land. For instance, if you are to sell such land, the person who paid only 100k will only get 10% of your sales.

An agreement will help you avoid conflict and keep your friendship bond even better because you can all trust each other more.

4. Lease-to-Own Models

This one is very common with farmers who want to own large plots of land for their farmland. With this plan, you pay a fixed amount monthly to use the land for a stated use. But unlike other lease options, you can become the owner of the land if you make a full year of payments without defaulting.

This works best in locations where development is slow.

While this plan is great, the only downside to it is that if you default payment at any time, your lease-to-own duration will restart.

So, even if you default in the eleventh month, you can still lose all the progress of 10 months!

Real-Life Stories: Nigerians Who Started Small

Ezekiel, 24 – NYSC Member & Front-End Developer in Osun State

Ezekiel began saving ₦30k/month from his NYSC allowance.

By month 10, he had saved ₦300k. He found a cooperative with a partner developer in Atan, Ogun State. He paid ₦100k upfront and ₦50k monthly for 8 months. In just one year, he secured his own plot.

Ada, 29 – Customer Service Rep in Lagos

Ada had been saving irregularly until she heard of an estate in Ido, Ibadan, offering plots at ₦900k with flexible payment plans. She committed ₦75k/month, adjusted her budget, and 12 months later received her allocation letter and plot survey.

Femi, 27 – MSc Student in Canada

Femi shared how he used part of his grocery store income in Ontario to start his first investment in land back home.

He said, “I didn’t even think ₦500k could do anything in real estate until my cousin showed me an estate in Ibadan offering installment payments. I paid ₦120k upfront, then ₦50k monthly. It’s been 10 months, and I now have my own plot. It gives me peace to know my money is growing — and not just being spent on Netflix and pizza.”

Chioma, 32 – Midwife Working in the UK

Chioma explained that after losing ₦700k to a fake land agent in 2021, she almost gave up on buying land. But she later said, “A colleague referred me to a verified developer offering land in Omu-Ketu with payment plans. I started again with ₦200k, this time more carefully. They sent receipts, I verified the title documents, and after 7 months, I got allocated. It feels like healing. I can finally say I own something solid in Nigeria.”

What to Look Out for Before Paying

Don’t let your desire to own land make you lose guard. Here are some things you should never negotiate when buying real estate:

Confirm the Title Documents Are Available.

Don’t take promises just like that.

Ask for actual survey plans, deed of assignment, layout plans, or excision/gazette copies. If they say “processing,” push further or verify with the state land registry.

Avoid Sites Without Proper Physical Access Roads

If you are given a plot without a motorable road today, know that it can either delay your development or trap your funds for years.

Also, ensure that you visit your site physically, especially in the rainy season, to see if it’s just bush or graded access.

Don’t Pay Without a Signed Payment Agreement or Allocation Timeline

Know this about buying any kind of real estate: you’re not just buying land — you’re entering a contract.

Any genuine developer will give you a written agreement stating what happens after each payment, when you’ll be allocated, and what you’ll receive.

Inspect the Location — Don’t Rely on Rendered Layouts

Many times, photos lie- a lot more than you think. Marketers hype.

Always inspect the land yourself or send a trusted person. Ask to see the actual plot area, not just a general area of land.

Track the Developer’s Reputation

Google the developer.

Check their social media reviews.

Ask for past buyers you can speak with.

If you notice that they delay allocation, give vague answers, try to shut down legitimate criticism online, walk away.

Starter’s Checklist: How to Begin With ₦500k

If you want to start buying real estate for as little as N500k, just use this 6-point formula:

Set a savings goal: ₦50k/month × 10 months = ₦500k
Make a list of verified developers with plans under ₦1M
Request site layout, title status, and payment options
Use the installment or cooperative method
Keep receipts + copies of all communication
Start with what you have — no amount is too small to begin

FAQs

1. Can I buy land in Lagos with ₦500k?

Not directly, but you can deposit in border areas like Omu Ketu, Badagry, or Atan towns.

2. How do I know if a developer is legit?

Search their RC number on the CAC portal, ask for physical estate addresses, and request references from past buyers.

3. Should I go with a cooperative or a private developer?

Cooperatives are cheaper but riskier if informal. Developers offer a better structure, if verified.

4. What happens if I can’t complete installment payments?

Reputable developers usually refund part of your payment or transfer you to a smaller plot. But it is different from brand to brand. Always read your contract first.

5. Can I sell the land if I haven’t finished paying?

Only after full payment and allocation. Until then, the land remains under developer control.

So, What Should You DO?

₦500k might not sound like a lot, but in the world of Nigerian real estate, it’s enough to open the door.

The earlier you start, the faster your land appreciates — even if you’re not ready to build yet.

If you need any help finding beginner-friendly estates with flexible plans? DM @possilaproperties and we’ll guide you.

by Tayo Aladetoyinbo

Is Buying Land in Ogun State a Good Investment in 2025?

Is buying land in Ogun State a good investment? The best answer to this common question is “yes”. But that is not convincing enough…

Ogun State is one of the best places to invest in Nigeria. It was that way 5 years ago and it still is now. And there are many reasons why.

Walk with me as I show you…

Why Ogun State is one of the best places to invest in
The top locations to buy land in Ogun State currently
The RoI (return on investment) you can get from investing in these locations
The risks that come with investing in Ogun State that nobody tells you about

Why Land in Ogun State Is on the Radar in 2025

First, let me tell you a truth that most real estate agents won’t tell you. Most coastal states like Lagos, Ogun, and Rivers tend to have fast development and more value in land.

This is because there are more commercial activities going on there than in other states.

However, unlike Lagos and Rivers that have active ports, Ogun does not have an active port. But Ogun State benefits from its direct connection to Lagos State.

If you check the map of Nigeria, Ogun surrounds Lagos on almost all sides.

If you go to Ikorodu, you can enter Ogun state

If you go to Agege, you can enter Ogun state

If you go to Ayobo area, you can enter Ogun

If you go to Epe, you can enter Ogun State

And there are many waterways that can still link you to Ogun state from Lagos that are not even on the traffic map!

What this means is that whatever happens in Lagos State has a direct impact on Ogun State.

When people are hired in Lagos, they find more affordable homes in Ogun- and they start buying land there too

Generally, Lagos is mostly overpopulated and priced based on the high demands. This is what makes Ogun State real estate one of the biggest real estate hotspots in Nigeria today.

If the average Lagosian wants fresh air, they will leave Lagos and go to Ogun State.

They want their kids to attend schools that are less noisier and rowdy.

They realize peace- and they will pay any money to get it in Ogun State. Well, as long as it is not as expensive as the quiet areas of Lagos State…

But that’s not everything that makes Ogun State a good place to invest in real estate in 2025.

Key Infrastructure Driving Growth in Ogun State

Yes, there are many people relocating from Lagos to Ogun State today…but that’s not the only thing that makes buying land in Ogun State a good investment.

One big factor of real estate growth anywhere in the world is infrastructural development. Let’s look at examples around Africa:

Look at the history of Addis Ababa in Ethiopia. The completion of their Light Rail in 2015 made property prices rise by over 30% in just 3 years.
Kenya’s Thika Superhighway and Nairobi Expressway also lead to massive real estate growth that made even suburbs like Ruiru become real estate goldmines!
Projects in Lagos such as the Lekki-Epe Expressway, the Lekki free Trade Zone, and the Dangote Refinery blew up the state’s real estate value. Places like Ibeju-Lekki grew so much between 2015 and 2020 so much so that land that used to sell for N800k started to sell for over N15M.

Now, let’s talk about

Infrastructural development in Ogun State That Increases Real Estate Value

1. Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

The reconstructed Lagos-Ibadan Expressway alone has opened up major areas such as Mowe, Ibafo, and Sagamu.

One of the smartest things you can do as a real estate investor is to look to find developing areas around these locations and buy them up fast.

In a few years, link roads will be developed also and they will also blow up! And you will make your money back!

2. The Sagamu Interchange Industrial Expansion

Because of Sagamu’s central location between Ogun, Lagos, Ibadan, and even other state in Western Nigeria, it has attracted so many companies in one place! The industrial area currently houses Nestle, Lafarge, many logistics firms.

The direct impact of this is that more people are employed. And where more people are employed, they will need new houses.

That’s where you come in. this expanding industrial area will need new landowners and landlords who these workers can buy land and houses from!

3. The ongoing construction of the Agro-Cargo International Airport in Iperu-Remo near Sagamu

This area can be accessed directly from the Lagos-Ibadan and Sagamu-Benin Expressway.

By default, surrounding areas of this airport will begin to see huge development. This is because it will be creating jobs because of the agro-processing zone and an international testing center for exports.

Top 4 Locations to Buy Land In Ogun State

All the development I mentioned will be nothing if I don’t show you the best places to invest in Ogun State.

I carefully picked these areas because they have great potential for growth than most parts of the state currently.

They have a huge population flocking from Lagos looking for new areas to reside and open small businesses. They also have good roads and are accessible to Lagos .

1. Ifo

Ifo is strategic for land banking mainly because of its proximity to Sango-Ota .

This puts it in the best position for residential real estate growth. Many Lagos workers who rent spaces in the Ota area are moving towards Ifo axis to buy land because of affordability reasons

In some years to come, this axis would have opened up because of increased road networks through places like Ilogbo.

This will directly connect the area to major locations like Sango, Idiroko, and TollGate, helping commuter to skip the Lagos-Ogun Expressway.

2. Ota

Ota is perfect for big-money investment. Because it is closer to Lagos than most parts of Ogun State, it opened up very fast. But there are still areas like Ewupe and Atan that are very still developing.

You can easily cash in on these areas and make the best out of it.

Many real estate growth indicators are in these places. Companies like Fidson, Nigerian Breweries, and even the intercontinental Distillers Ltd.

And the popular Canaanland which houses 2 big secondary schools, a residential estate and a university is also here!.

And these attract workers from across all parts of Nigeria!

One of the best ways to invest here is to flip properties. You can find properties that are old and abandoned or that their owners are willing to sell off.

You can buy these and renovate them to become high-paying rental properties in future.

In places like Atan, you can still find bare or half-developed land that you can buy and keep. This spot will open up big time when infrastructural development comes to surrounding areas like Badagry.

3. Mowe/Ofada

Mowe and Ofada are already big but there are still many unexplored and developing parts of the area.

Big developments are already happening in these area. There are many houses popping up because people are moving from Lagos to settle here.

Also, the Mowe/Ofada district is very close to the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and the RCCG’s Redemption Camp which is another religious center with a fully-operational economic ecosystem.

So, yes, if you invest in these area, you don’t just have good investment, you have an investment that promises to pay you back for your sweat and patience.

4. Omu-Ketu

This is another goldmine right on the border of Ogun and Lagos state.

One wonderful thing that many people don’t know about Lagos real estate is that it is best you invest in the suburbs and border towns. You don’t need to go to the city.

And that’s one of the reasons why Omu-Ketu is a perfect pick. It is fast developing with projects like the Ijebu-Sekungba Highway cutting right through it!

It also directly connects to major areas such as Ijebu Ode, Ikorodu, Ketu, and Epe. This makes it a feeder town that will keep attracting companies that want to ease transportation of their goods.

It is also perfect for families that want to raise their kids in a quiet and serene area.

This place is best for land banking. Buy it, keep it, wait for some years for schools and roads to become fully developed and you will have your return in the long-term!

Key Risks You Should Know About Buying Land in Ogun State

Despite Ogun State’s advantages, real estate investment isn’t risk-free. These are the biggest concerns I have seen over the years:

Title Disputes

Watch out for disputes especially with family-owned land. There are cases of Omo Onile problems where one land can be sold to many buyers by one relative who doesn't have the power to sell such land.

To escape these kind of situations, use only surveyors and developers who provide valid documentation. e.g Deed of Assignment, C of O, Gazette, Excision.

And if you still want to buy with family, ensure that you buy from the family head and ensure that he has the approval of all the family elders.

When they are signing any document off to you, ensure that it contains the signature of the family heads and all the decision-making elders.

Swampy Land or Poor Building Structure

Many parts of Ogun State are riverine.

If you will buy land, ensure that you do a physical inspection to see if it is not in a place that is always flooding. If you will buy an uncompleted house, take an expert along to check the durability of the structure.

Don’t leave any stone unturned when it comes to checking for the integrity of any property you are buying.

If you are not available to do a physical inspection yourself, hire a building expert to go on your behalf.

Unlicensed Developers

Many scams now understand that the average person will buy when they see the letterhead document of a company. So, they front themselves as a real estate company with fake document.

Once you buy from them, they just disappear into thin air!

What you can do to avoid people like this is to verify the company’s registration with CAC. Also, do well to verify every document they give you.

Are You One of Those Who Can Invest in Ogun Land?

This depends on your goal, but Ogun State is best suited for:

Nigerians in Diaspora who are Looking for affordable, verifiable land near Lagos that they can develop and keep long-term.
Young Professionals who need a first-time investment without pressure to build immediately.
Parents & Long-Term Planners who are buying now to help their children in the future and to aid their retirement plans.
Land Bankers: People who want to buy low, wait 5-10 years, and sell high

So, if you fit any of the descriptions above, you are the perfect fit for real estate investment in Ogun State.

Final Thoughts: Is Buying Land in Ogun State a Good Investment?

Yes — Ogun State remains one of Nigeria’s most accessible and promising real estate hotspots in 2025.

But you must:

Buy in the right zone for your goal
Verify every document before paying.
Avoid panic buying or speculative hype.

With its infrastructure momentum, growing population, and relative affordability, Ogun State stands as a sustainable land investment option in Nigeria’s south-west corridor.

FAQs

Is land in Ogun safer to buy than in Lagos?

In many cases, yes. There’s less omo-onile tension, but title verification is still crucial.

What’s the best part of Ogun for rentals?

Mowe and parts of Ota see high rental activity due to Lagos workers relocating.

Can I resell land quickly in Ogun?

In fast-growing areas like Mowe, Ibafo, Sagamu, yes. But deeper areas like Ifo, Atan, Omu Ketu are better for long-term holding.

What documents should I ask for?

Survey Plan, Deed of Assignment, Allocation Letter, Gazette or C of O (if available).

Are developers in Ogun reliable?

Some are. Always check for CAC registration and previous client reviews. Visit the land in person or send a trusted person.

by Tayo Aladetoyinbo

Key Differences Between Residential and Commercial Real Estate

This article will save you time. If you search online, you might have to read hundreds of lines to understand the differences between residential and commercial real estate!

But if you have ever asked yourself the question: Should I Invest in residential or commercial property?, take a quick look at this table below…

And if you need more details, scroll below it.

I have written everything you need to know about the differences between residential and commercial real estate!

Residential Real Estate v Commercial Real Estate

Factor	Residential Real Estate	Commercial Real Estate
Main Use	Living (homes, apartments)	Business (offices, malls, warehouses)
Typical Tenants	Individuals or families	Companies, retail shops, or industries
Lease Duration	Short (6–12 months)	Long (3–10 years)
Tenant Turnover	Frequent	Low
Income Stability	Moderate	High (if occupied)
Entry Capital Required	Lower	Higher
Maintenance & Management	Owner responsibility	Often passed to tenants
Liquidity	Easier to sell	Harder to sell (niche buyers)
Risk Exposure	Lower (always demand for housing)	Higher (tied to business cycles)
Return Potential	Moderate	High (but with higher risk)

1. Purpose and Usage

The main difference between residential and commercial real estate is the reason they are built.

Residential real estate is used for living, while commercial real estate is used for business purposes.

Residential real estate contains single-family homes and multiple-bedroom flats. These can come in different forms, including bungalows and duplexes.

Unlike most countries of the world, Nigeria has not fully started the art of housing so many families into one building complexes. This is because of the cost of building condominiums.

Commercial real estate includes office buildings, retail shops, shopping malls, warehouses, and industrial buildings.

Tenants in these buildings are usually businesses, not individuals or families. Because of Nigeria’s population, there are many shops, market stalls, and shopping complexes, especially in town centers.

2. Investment Entry and Financing

If you want to start residential real estate, you may need a little less capital than with commercial real estate. This is because of the location where residential real estate can be built. You can situate it in a more remote area. However, with commercial real estate, your property has to be a developed area because businesses want to be seen. Only warehouses may still use remote areas, but they also have to be accessible by road networks.

Commercial real estate also usually requires a larger upfront investment. They are usually bigger, larger, and more fitted with things like air conditioning and other special needs that businesses may have.

Read: How to Invest in Real Estate in Nigeria

3. Length of Lease

Residential properties are usually rented for 6 - 12 months. As an owner of this kind of property, you tend to have newer tenants more often. This requires a new process of screening the tenants. This is why some people just hire agents to do all the work for them.

Also, because of this, you may have to make renovations more often because of any damage that may have been done to the property.

On the other hand, commercial real estate is usually rented for a longer time, sometimes 3 to 10 years, depending on the type of business. Because of the length of time, you do not have to recycle tenants as much.

While some people may prefer residential properties because they bring more steady income, others may prefer the larger seasonal payments they get from commercial real estate.

This is why some people invest in both at the same time. One supplies regular income, the other brings seasonal income.

4. Income Potential and Risk Profile

Businesses usually earn more than the average person. This makes commercial properties a better option to get higher returns with lesser spend. However, this comes with a higher risk. For example, a warehouse can take months to be occupied. Also, business income may vary, depending on business success and other external factors.

On the other hand, residential properties usually yield lower returns. This is because they are usually in higher demand, especially in areas with a higher population.

So, while commercial properties may offer higher cash returns, they come with a greater risk, being that businesses may fail and the rental income may stop because such a property is harder to occupy.

But like I mentioned earlier, the success of your commercial real estate property is down to the location. If your property is in a place with more population, you might find it easier to get a new tenant compared to when your property is in a place with lower demand.

5. Management and Maintenance

When you have a residential property, you have a greater responsibility to manage and maintain it. While your tenants may make minor repairs, you still have to come in sometimes to take care of major things such as heavy power failures, fire, and poor plumbing that affects many rooms.

This is the same for commercial properties. You might have to handle lots of things. However, many agreements today place a greater burden on the business renting the property to handle much of the maintenance, property taxes, and insurance.

This is because of the kind of clause covering such a lease. Many times, such a contract may be long-term (3 - 10 years), hence, the business tenant is almost like an owner.

So, while commercial properties may sometimes not bring in steady income, you tend to spend less on maintenance costs if you are dealing with a long-term lease.

Read: 14 Mistakes to Avoid As a Real Estate Investor in Nigeria

6. Demand for Properties & Salability

Residential properties are easier to sell. This is because there are more people willing to buy homes than businesses willing to buy office spaces.

Usually, businesses do not buy properties for two reasons. First, they may not have the capital base to do so. Number two, they usually have a preference for the kind of properties that they can use. Banks in Nigeria, for instance, usually prefer a storey building, so a bungalow may not work for them, though it may be good as a satellite office for small-scale bank operations.

So, if you want to invest in either of these properties, you should know that commercial real estate takes a longer time to sell. On the other hand, residential properties are more liquid.

Final Thoughts On The key Differences Between Residential and Commercial Real Estate

Take a look again at the table at the beginning of this article and ask yourself these questions:

What is my goal for wanting to own a property?
How much would I give to get this property built?
How much risk can I take?
How much debt can my accounts take?
Do I like to manage directly, or do I prefer people to do so for me?

Your answer will show you whether you prefer a stable, simple, and steady income or a seasonal, riskier, but higher income.

If you still have any questions about residential and commercial real estate investment, send us a message on Instagram or info@possilaproperties.com. We will be glad to guide you!

by Tayo Aladetoyinbo

How Profitable Is Real Estate in Nigeria?

For the longest time, the naira has consistently fallen against the dollar in foreign exchange performance. And the question on the lips of many is how profitable is real estate in Nigeria considering the state of the economy...

Nigeria is currently experiencing one of the most challenging economic phases in its history. For the longest time, the naira has consistently fallen against the dollar in foreign exchange performance.

Because of this, inflation catches up with people’s investment so fast that the interest may not even cover that at the end of the investment cycle. And this is why many Nigerians are looking for alternative ways to invest their income.

One of the most reliable ways so far is real estate investment. But how profitable is real estate in Nigeria?

Every day, on social media, you see agents and developers talk about real estate… But is it truly the next big thing on Nigeria’s investment scene?

In this post, I will show you

What makes an investment profitable
Whether or not real estate is profitable
Whether or not you should invest in real estate in Nigeria

What Does "Profitability" in Real Estate Investment Mean?

If you describe real estate profit, there are 4 ways you should look at it:

1. Appreciation

This is the direct increase in the value of the land or property over a period of time. For instance, if you could have bought a plot of land for N400,000 in 2023 and it is now valued at N1,000,000 in 2025.

Your profit is automatically N600,000. That’s a 150% increase on your investment!

So, that’s one way you look at it. Own a property, and wait for a considerable time. And you will see the value of the property increase faster than you could ever imagine!

2. Cash flow

Many real estate investors don’t stop at just buying land or property. They take it a step further and either develop the land or renovate the building.

Then they rent it out to tenants.

The rental or lease income from this property is another way you can make a profit in Nigerian real estate.

3. Inflation Shield/Equity Storage

Sometimes, you may not always make money back from your investment immediately.

But your investment can help you protect the strength of your capital. Earlier in this article, I showed you how the naira has lost its strength greatly over the years.

If you saved N200,000 five years ago, you will probably have the same amount or a little more than that when you come five years later.

But if you strategically invest in real estate, you cannot come back to the same amount. This is because land in Nigeria is forever appreciated.

You should read my post: Is Real Estate a Good Investment for Nigerians in the Long Run?

In that article, I talked about what makes it seem that real estate in Nigeria keeps adding value every year.

4. Utility

There is a feature of real estate that makes it so amazing compared to other investment channels. It cannot be moved.

Yes, real estate is something you can't transport. If you buy it today, you can go for 10 years and still return to it without any problems.

In those 10 years, a bank can close down

In those 10 years, you can lose a crypto wallet

In those 10 years, a car will lose its value

But real estate will always be there for you! As long as you protect your land with effective documentation, you can always come back to it and use it for any purpose- building, leasing, farming, or resale.

You should read this article: What is the Future of Real Estate in Nigeria?

So, Is Real Estate in Nigeria Really Profitable?

Yes. The answer is simple.

Real estate all across Nigeria is very profitable. And this profitability is not only in Lagos or Abuja.

Across the country, land has appreciated greatly over the past 10 – 20 years. Let me show you why and how:

How Has Land Grown Over the Years in Nigeria

Epe and Ikorodu

These two areas blew up “unexpectedly”. Ikorodu was once considered an outskirt of Lagos state and became a real estate hotspot after the Lagos-Ikorodu Expressway was built.

Epe was also another town known only for fishing until the Lekki-Epe Expressway was built.

These two areas grew rapidly, all because of public infrastructure projects!

Ibeju-Lekki

This was another hidden gem in Lagos. Ibeju-Lekki blew up when announcements such as the construction of the Lekki Deep Sea Port and the Dangote Refinery came to the open.

This shows that private investment can also push real estate growth.

Kubwa and Kuje

These areas used to be ghost towns in Abuja.

But when the cost of living in central Abuja rose, people began to find nearby towns to buy and develop their residential houses.

So, when next you see mass immigration to a particular place, you should know that spot promises lots of profits.

Ilorin and Enugu

Again, if you notice, I am not restricting your knowledge to only Lagos and the big parts of Abuja.

Places like Enugu and Ilorin benefited from the huge population of university students who are constantly in need of a place to reside.

Over 51% of Nigeria’s population is between the ages of 15 - 34, and many among these are still attending universities either for undergraduate or postgraduate studies.

This is another pointer to what makes Nigeria’s real estate ever-growing!

What Drives This Growth?

I have said this before already. Many factors drive real estate growth in Nigeria, but I will highlight 5 major ones here:

Development

New roads, railways, and ports such as the Lekki-Epe Expressway, the Idu railway, and the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway

Public-private estate partnerships

Projects like the Dangote Refinery, the Odogunyan Industrial Estate, and public-private residential estates have opened up many hinterlands like Lekki, Ikorodu, and Igando.

Returnees and diaspora buyers

Many people don’t know that many Nigerians in the diaspora contribute to real estate growth! Many Nigerians abroad buy real estate in huge numbers back at home, and this greatly contributes to real estate growth than you can imagine!

Institutional expansion (e.g, schools, hospitals, markets)

Wherever you find a university, public secondary schools, hospitals, and markets, you will surely see crazy real estate growth.

A place like Ife in Osun State saw a crazy increase in land value when OAU students began to live off-campus more from 2017.

Today, some plots in that place are worth up to 8 million naira! All because of the presence of a university!

Migration

States like Ogun, Nasarawa, and Ibadan have benefited directly from migration. This happens when people move away from an overcrowded city centre like Ikeja in Lagos to settle in a less crowded place like Ikorodu.

And now that Ikorodu is becoming crowded and expensive, some other people are relocating to places in Ogun State like Omu, Ibafo, Sagamu.

Now, to the question on your mind…

How Long Does It Take to See a Profit When I Invest in Real Estate?

I will keep this short so you can understand better: real estate isn’t a quick get-in-get-out game. But it is one of the most reliable investment channels out there today. Let me show you a breakdown:

Short-term (1–3 years)

If you want to get returns within the first 3 years of investment, you will have to invest in places that are more exposed to development.

As a result, you will spend more, but you will get more RoI within a shorter time.

Mid-term (4–7 years)

This is possible where you have invested in areas that are not too remote but are opening up to development fast.

An example is Ido in Ibadan. The growth in Ido has been steady. But it cannot be compared to a place like Epe or Omu, which promise faster and bigger RoI within a shorter time frame.

Long-term (10+ years)

Now, this is where I used to ask people to be very patient. This kind of real estate may be so deep inside the bush that you may not even remember where you bought it. The tactic for buying the type of real estate is to buy it on good authority.

For instance, you may have heard that the government has planned a huge university to be built in a town in Ondo in 2037. You will just go and buy like 20 acres around that zone.

Just watch, if you spent 3 million on those acres, you can make up to 10 - 15 times that amount in 10 years!

Profit vs. Risk: What Makes Nigerians Lose Their Money

With real estate, there is no profit without proper planning. It is impossible. But many Nigerians dabble in real estate without knowing the details, and this is why they lose money!

Here are 5 ways that I have seen people lose money over time. And I will advise you to avoid them:

Buying land without verifying the title
Choosing areas with no development plans
Falling for deals that are too good to be true
Ignoring building regulations in the state
Buying because of peer pressure or because they want to “feel among”

I wrote more on this here: 14 Mistakes You Must Avoid As a Nigerian Real Estate Investor

What Makes a Location Profitable?

When making your decision to invest in real estate in Nigeria, here are some key factors in Nigeria that you should consider:

Proximity to major roads or bridges
Within a zone that is close to major cities, where more people live
Near universities, hospitals, or government institutions
Inside a planned estate area that already has buyers
Under government-led development plans

Top 10 FAQs on How Profitable is Real Estate in Nigeria

1. Is real estate more profitable than stocks or crypto in Nigeria?

Yes, especially for long-term security. Land value rises with inflation; crypto and stocks are volatile.

2. Is land or housing more profitable?

Land is easier to start and manage. Housing generates rental cash flow but requires higher capital.

3. Can I buy land with ₦500k or ₦1M?

Yes, in peri-urban areas with flexible payment plans.

4. Will land appreciate without development nearby?

Not likely. Look for roads, schools, or announced projects before buying.

5. What documents should I check before buying?

When buying real estate in Nigeria, whether land or building, look out for these documents:

Registered Survey
C of O or Gazette
Deed of Assignment
Allocation Letter

6. Can I lease my land without building?

Yes. You can lease out your land for uses such as farming, storage, or billboard space, depending on location.

7. How do I know a developer is legit?

Check their CAC registration.
Ask for RC number
Visit their past project sites
Check their social media channels for real followers
Confirm their physical office and online presence (website)

8. What if I buy and don’t develop for years?

No problem—as long as your documentation is intact. The land still gains value.

9. Is there a risk of being scammed?

Yes, if you don’t verify documents or deal with unregistered sellers.

10. Is now (2025) still a good time to invest?

Absolutely. Many states are currently undergoing infrastructure expansion, and land demand is rising.

Final Thoughts on how profitable is real estate in Nigeria: How to Get Started

Take a look at all the criteria for fast growth I mentioned in this article. Go over them one by one, then find a real estate spot that ticks all the boxes.

After this, you can set your real estate investment goal. E.g., I want to make 55M from real estate investment in 7 years from now with just the N5M I currently have.

Once your goal is set, find a trustworthy real estate company to find you properties that fit your goal. Then, start investing!

Feel free to send us a message with any questions or thoughts on Instagram @possilaproperties. We will be happy to guide you!

by Tayo Aladetoyinbo

Is Real Estate a Good Investment for Nigerians in the Long Run?

Is real estate a good investment for Nigerians in the long run? This is a question on the lips of many Nigerians in recent times due to the anomalies in the industry and the atrocities being committed by the players in the industry.

The truth is Nigeria is in one of its most challenging economic eras — high inflation, currency volatility, insecurity and unreliable savings returns.

That’s why more young professionals, students, and diaspora Nigerians are turning to real estate.

They don’t just want an investment but to secure their money against future uncertainties.

But there is the unpopular opinion that land appreciation only happens in places like Lagos or Abuja or Portharcourt. Is this true or is it happening across Nigeria?

This post explores how real estate has grown nationwide — and how you can spot the next profitable city, even with limited capital.

Is Real Estate a Good Investment for Nigerians in the Long Run? See Nationwide Growth in Real Estate

From Kano to Enugu, Ilorin to Kuje, and beyond, real estate in Nigeria has shown strong upward movement — not just in pricing, but in infrastructure, demand, and population value.

Let’s look at key regions and the developments that drove their growth.

Kano (Northwest Nigeria)

Neighbourhoods like Hotoro, Sabon Gari, and Nassarawa GRA were once “outskirt towns”.

But they’ve grown in estate development, commerce, and road upgrades over the years. This is due to key factors such as:

Expansion of private schools and medical centers
Proximity to industrial corridors and GRA upgrades
Gradual recovery after security problems around 2018 - 2021

FCT Satellite Towns (Kubwa, Kuje, Gwagwalada)

Abuja’s cost of living pushed many middle-class families out of the central city. They moved to places like Kubwa and Kuje.

With time, these locations increased in land value due to specific factors such as:

Civil service migration
Widened expressways & mass housing projects
Nearby educational institutions and rail infrastructure

Idu, in particular, is now an industrial hub because of the Abuja Metro Rail, dry ports, and proximity to the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport corridor.

Ilorin (Kwara State)

While Ilorin’s growth is quiet and not as big as most cities in Nigeria, smart investors have seen how locations like Asa Dam, Ganmo, and Fate have developed over time.

This is because of key drivers such as:

University and polytechnic expansions
Government relocation incentives for civil servants
Roadworks and estate layout approval

Kaduna

Southern Kaduna, Sabon Tasha, Romi, and environs have become so big now, thanks to government spending and NGO projects.

Other key factors that contributed to its growth are

Road expansion, and
Population growth, especially with Abuja-Kaduna commuters settling in.

When I talk to people, especially young folks (Gen Z) about real estate, their response is, is real estate a good investment for Nigerians? We're talking about Crypto, Forex, you're talking about real estate.

From the breakdown above, you can see that real estate is not an asset class to ignore.

Lessons from Past Real Estate Booms

If you study all the examples I made above, you will notice a common pattern:

Infrastructure → Population Growth → Increase in Demand → Price Explosion

Let’s apply this to 3 cities:

1. Ibeju-Lekki

This place was once considered a remote swampland. Within a few years, it exploded big time thanks to these factors:

The construction of the Lekki-Epe Expressway
Private and public projects like Dangote Refinery, Free Trade Zone, Deep Seaport, and Alaro City have been launched
Unveiling of proposed plans for the Lekki Airport, Coastal Highway, and Green Line Rail

2. Epe

Epe was once known to be a fishing village in the backyards of Lagos. But everything changed when:

The Lekki-Epe Road was upgraded in 2017
Retail and logistics businesses followed
Schools, banks, and estates moved in
Population and transport hubs created new value

Now, the Fourth Mainland Bridge has been proposed. It brings even more value to the land in Epe as it’d directly link the island to the Lagos Mainland, helping commuters skip the stress of using only the Lekki-Epe Road.

The real estate growth in Epe silenced a lot of critics who ask the question, is real estate a good investment for Nigerians?

3. Ikorodu

This was a forgotten “Lagos backyard” that became an industrial, commercial, and residential asset faster than anyone could have imagined. I remember when I was younger and people spoke about this place- you’d think it was a forest next to Sagamu.

But it became a big deal all because:

The Lagos-Ikorodu Road was repaired and expanded
The Ikorodu-Sagamu Highway was also upgraded
The location allowed direct access to Lagos for Sagamu dwellers

This not only brings lots of families, but it also brings companies with their offices and manufacturing plants. All of these brought about the Odogunyan Industrial Estate, the Lagos Rice Mill, and the Dangote Plant, which created jobs, increased the number of tenants, and created long-term housing needs.

The Drivers Behind Long-Term Growth

From everything you have read so far, it is very obvious that you must look out for 3 major things if you want the best out of your real estate investment in Nigeria:

1. Urban Migration

People follow opportunity.

Look at cities like Abuja, Benin, and Ilorin. They all grew because of universities, ministries, or industrial expansion.

If you want to invest, I’d advise you to watch for where new jobs and infrastructure go. And follow fast!

2. Major Infrastructural Projects

Whenever you see the government planning roads, airports, railways, and seaports, just know that the land around those places will soon become hot cakes!

Look at these examples again:

Lekki-Epe Expressway (Epe)
Ijebu-Sekungba Highway (Omu-Ketu)
Ibadan-Eruwa Expressway (Ido)
Abuja Metro Rail (Idu)

I hope you can see this pattern. Anywhere development surrounds migration or even a small population, just know that there will be an increase in value very soon.

The best decision you can make in that case is to buy earlier so you can get the most returns later.

3. Public-Private Partnerships & Industrial Projects

Sometimes, it’s not only the government that makes areas boom- private projects also do!

Examples:

Dangote Refinery (Ibeju-Lekki)
Lafarge Plant (Ewekoro, Ogun)

But don’t stop there. Also, look out for government/private initiatives that are geared towards urban growth. A close example is the recent Family Homes Funds Ltd- a joint-venture housing project that will run in 12+ states.

NOTE: Real Estate is No Longer Just for the Wealthy

Before now in Nigeria, only the wealthy could really afford real estate. As such, the average-earning person could find it very hard to buy land in a place that has the capacity to appreciate quickly.

But today, real estate developers now offer different packages that allow you to invest in promising areas without breaking the bank. Some of them include:

Flexible installment plans
Entry points as low as ₦100 - ₦300k deposit
Verified plots in places like Ido (Ibadan), Osongama (Uyo), Omu-Ketu (Ogun), Gwagwalada (FCT), and Benin suburbs

Because of this, young professionals and Nigerians in diaspora can now build wealth consistently with real estate- without heavy capital.

4 Smart Things You Must Know Before Buying Land

Always verify documents: Look out for C of O, survey plans, or deed.
Buy ahead of growth: Don’t wait for prices to go up before you buy!
Work with registered developers: Many land deals are too good to be true. No land agent in Epe will sell a plot for less than ₦1.5 million. Avoid cheap scams.
Avoid emotional hype: While real estate is great, doing your research is better. Don’t just follow the hype, research the hype!

Real Also: 14 Mistakes to Avoid as a Real Estate Investor in Nigeria

So, is real estate investment a good investment for Nigerians in the long run?

The answer is YES.

With the way real estate has proved to have created wealth for many in the past, it's certain the future is even brighter.

For example, in 2023, real estate outgrew crude petroleum and natural gas, financial institutions, beverages, food, and tobacco and other services

That's is a huge sign that real estate is a dependable asset class.

Now, What Do You DO?

You’ve seen everything

What has made money for people who bought a long time ago
What is making money now for smart investors
What can make money for you, too

You’ve seen how land transforms once projects, people, and companies come to a place.

So what do you do next?

1. Re-read this guide and pick a growth location

2. Kick out every doubt or distraction from your mind. This can be things like

“My salary will not be okay.”
“I need to tell my mummy first.”
“I’m waiting for my big career break”.

3. Start researching trusted developers or estate projects
4. DM @possilaproperties on Instagram with any questions you may have

All of Nigeria is yours for the taking. Make a decision today and start building a financial future you will surely love!

by Tayo Aladetoyinbo

How Can I Invest in Real Estate in Nigeria?

In this article, I'll show you how to invest in real estate in Nigeria and why you should.

In Q4 2023, Nigeria's real estate made up 6.06% of the country’s GDP. In that quarter alone, real estate beat industries like crude petroleum and natural gas, food and beverages, construction, and even financial institutions!

This makes real estate one of the most valuable non-oil sectors to invest in Nigeria today!

But despite the massive financial returns that real estate actively offers, many people see it as an industry that cannot be entered!

The truth is: REAL ESTATE INVESTING IS EASY.

Because of social media, it looks very expensive on the outside. But if you look at the basics, it is simple and accessible to practically everybody.

You don’t need to be a millionaire. You don’t need to be the son or daughter of a millionaire. You just need to see how you can tweak the process to work for you!

Step 1: Understand the Nigerian Real Estate Landscape

The first thing you need to know is that there are different types of real estate investments you can start with today. These include:

Land Banking involves buying land and keeping it to gain interest so you can sell it later or develop it into a commercial or residential property.
Residential Buildings: These are buildings that you construct so you can get rent from private individuals or families.

Sometimes, you may also choose to build the residential property and just sell it to someone who can manage it better than you.

Commercial Properties: These are shops, warehouses, shopping complexes, and office spaces that you develop to rent out to companies and businesses.

The lease on this kind of property is usually longer, some lasting between 3 to 10 years, especially if you are dealing with a big business.

Short-let apartments: Short-lets are just as their name sounds. They are apartments that are rented for a very short stay, usually between 1 day to 6 months, depending on the agreement you make with the occupant.

Short-lets are very profitable because they often offer a higher rent when you compare the total in contrast to a one-year lease.

However, short-lets only work best in cities that have many visitors as well as a young population, like Lagos and Abuja.

If you’re just starting, land banking is often the safest and most flexible route to invest in real estate in Nigeria.

It involves buying affordable land now in areas expected to grow and holding it for appreciation or development.

Step 2: Define Your Investment Goal Before You Invest In Real Estate In Nigeria

Before you put money down to invest in real estate in Nigeria, you must map out your goals for investing first. Here are some simple questions that will help you choose the type of real estate to buy and how much you should spend eventually…

Do I want to build a home for my family, or do I want to make money from rent and grow capital that way?
How soon do I need returns? Is it 1 year, 3 years, 5 years, or more?
How much risk can I take? What amount of money can I invest per time? Am I a high spender and low investor? How much can my bank lend me? And how fast can I refund them?
What is my tolerance level? Am I patient enough to watch a building grow from foundation to roofing? Can I manage tenants?

For example:

A Nigerian in diaspora looking for long-term security may prefer land banking in Omu-Ketu, Gwagwalada, Asaba, Ibadan, or Epe.
A tech professional in Abuja might invest in a rental unit in a high-demand neighborhood in Lagos or Abuja.

Clear goals help you filter thousands of “hot” offers and focus on what aligns with your financial plans.

This way, you will not fall for scam deals that some people peddle to woo unsuspecting buyers.

Step 3: Set Your Budget and Funding Strategy

Let me say this again: REAL ESTATE IS NOT EXPENSIVE!

You don’t need ₦10 million to begin.

You don’t even need ₦5 million.

Let me show you an example: If you bought a plot of land in Epe in 2022 for less than 2 million back then, you will be able to sell it today (June 2025) for up to 6 million!

With just ₦350,000–₦1,000,000, you can secure a plot in growing areas outside major cities in Nigeria.

For Lagos, Omu-Ketu is a fast-developing area on the outskirts

For Abuja, look to Nassarawa

For Ibadan, Ido is a great option

But you may ask… how can I fund my real estate investment?

Ways to fund your investment:

Use your savings: Simply put money together in an account and lock it everytime you top it up. Make your target be clearly written out: TO BECOME A LAND OWNER BY DECEMBER 24TH!
Investment clubs or co-ops: This is how most Nigerian parents buy their land today. They simply joined a cooperative and started paying for land in bits. Sometimes, they don’t even know when they have bought 3 plots.

So, you can find and join a real estate cooperative, too.

Real Estate Instalment Plans: This is what I always suggest to new investors. Real estate saving plans allow you to invest in real estate in Nigeria by “saving” your money. You pay in instalments, and when your payment is done, you get your land and the document.

At Possila, we have been running this plan for many years, and it has been used by professionals in Nigeria, workers and students abroad, as well as students and freelancers in Nigerian universities.

Visit our Instagram page to get land banking services on at a glance land banking.

But when you invest in real estate in Nigeria, there are certain costs you must look out for. Sometimes, your purchase price is just the first among the many things you will have to pay for.

Here are some hidden costs to watch out for:

Survey plans
Legal fees
Development levies
Documentation (like C of O)

This is why we usually subsidize our customers’ spending on land by giving them their Deed of Assignment for free.

If you want to know more about which land document you should spend on first, read this article. I talked all about land documents according to their level of importance.

Step 4: Research Locations and Real Estate Companies

After you discover the type of real estate you want to go into, you should start looking for a place to buy.

Here is a smart 4-way formula you can use when looking for a location for real estate investment:

Look out for government projects
See if the area is accessible by road
Look out for general development like new houses and hotels
Increase in population

But if you are looking for a developer or marketer, here are some factors you should look out for:

Ask for the company’s RC numbers and past transactions.
Look out for online reviews and social proof.
Insist on getting documentation immediately after payment.
Schedule site inspections (do video inspections or send a lawyer, if you are abroad).

Step 5: Understand the Legal Process and Documentation

If you want to buy land or property in Nigeria, you need paperwork and caution. The documents are important, but you must be careful in getting them together.

Here are the top 5 key documents you need when buying land or buildings in Nigeria today:

Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)

This document is issued by the state government. It legally confirms land ownership; the state no longer owns the land. As a result, ownership is transferred to the new buyer by the state governor for a specific period, typically 99 years.

Deed of Assignment

The Deed of Assignment is probably the most important document you could strive for. This is because it is the only document that transfers title from the seller to the buyer, confirming the sale of the property.

Survey Plan

This outlines the property’s coordinates (locations), size, and boundaries, ensuring it aligns with government-approved layouts. It is usually submitted to the Surveyor General in the state where the land or the property is located.

Governor’s Consent

Many people think that this automatically comes with a C of O. No. The Governor’s Consent is required for property resale with a C of O. It is the state’s acknowledgement of the transfer of transfer of ownership.

Deed of Lease

This is similar to a deed of assignment for leased properties. It clearly defines the terms and conditions of property use between the owner and the tenant.

When it comes to land documentation, here are some red flags you need to look out for:

Land under government acquisition: This kind of land is reserved for government projects such as railways, public schools, hospitals, and other government uses.

If you buy this kind of land, you can never lay claim to it successfully. It belongs to the government and cannot be transferred to an individual for private use.

Sellers without verified documents: If someone tried to sell land to you without documentation, run! Don’t transact with them.

IF you buy this kind of land or property, you can lose it if someone with authentic documentation comes along.

All they need to show is that they have legal ownership. You can’t fight them. You will just have to let go.

No physical allocation even after full payment: If you pay for land or property completely and your land is not given to you immediately, this is a big red flag.

Ask for your refund and walk away fast.

The problem here is that they may be trying to allocate land that belongs to someone else already to you.

In that case, someone can come and lay claim to that land or property, no matter how long you have spent on it!

Step 6: Make the Purchase and Track Your Investment

The last thing is to BUY. But when you are doing so, ensure you do these 4 things:

Pay through official channels (bank transfers, company accounts only). Don’t pay to an individual account except if you can confirm that the person represents a family
Request a receipt
If it’s land, push for immediate allocation and fencing to secure it
If it’s a built property, consider hiring a property manager to take care of it for you

Bonus Tips for Nigerians in Diaspora

You don’t have to wait until you’re “back home” before you invest. Many Nigerians in the UK, US, and Canada are now investing via verified real estate companies that are ready to get you virtual inspections.

Avoid sending money to family members to “help you buy” — unless they’re professionals in real estate.

Conclusion: To Invest in Real Estate in Nigeria, Start Smart, Grow Steady

Nigerian real estate is no longer reserved for high-end earners.

Anybody can start with as little as 350,000 and get their property in 3 - 12 months of instalment payments.

Whether you work here in Nigeria or abroad, you can make your money start working for you right now.

Reach out to us today to get top industry advice on the best places to invest in real estate in Nigeria today!

Note again: You don’t have to start BIG. Just start!

by Tayo Aladetoyinbo

Which Real Estate Makes the Most Money in Nigeria?

I have seen people complain that they are not just making enough money from their real estate investment.

There are many reasons for this, but the main thing is that they did not invest in the type of real estate that makes the most money in Nigeria.

Nigeria’s real estate market is unique because it is growing faster than the systems that sustain it. This means there are loopholes you can access to make money.

But only a few loopholes lead to real and lasting profit.

In this article, I will show you

6 real estate investments you can do to make the most money in Nigeria
How to jump from liquid to profitable in Nigerian real estate
What you can do to start these investments

1. Development Projects: Big Risk, High Reward

When you see real estate companies buy barren land and build apartments on it, that is what a real estate cash cow looks like. These properties they develop will eventually sell for millions!

Imagine buying a 600 sqm plot of land in Ajah for ₦30M and building 4 duplexes on it at ₦30M each!

Altogether, you’d have spent ₦ 150 M. If you sell each of these properties at ₦70M, you’d make a whooping profit of ₦130M!

Why is Development a Great Investment?

You can add value by turning land into livable property.
The demand for housing is always increasing in Nigeria.
Multiple construction allows you to sell in bulk and get bulk returns

However, real estate development is best for investors with high capital. But if you cannot afford this deal by yourself, you can engage in Joint Ventures with landowners and other property developers to pool resources and get lasting results.

Read Also: Proven Step-by-Step Method to Invest in Nigerian Real Estate

2. Luxury Real Estate: The Niche That Pays Big

One thing surprises me about Nigeria today… Despite having one of the worst economic phases in the history of the country, the luxury market is booming! There has been a steady rise of high-brow areas like Ikoyi, Banana Island, Lekki Phase 1, Asokoro, and Maitama.

Some of these high-end properties can bring in returns of ₦15M–₦30M/year. And some of these sell for as high as ₦200M and above!

What Makes Luxury Real Estate Profitable?

It offers a high profit margin for every sale
It appreciates faster in resale value because of its scarcity
Because of its location, it attracts more corporate and high-paying tenants

However, just like real estate development in Nigeria, luxury apartments require a very high entry cost. They are also costlier to maintain!

Also, if you want to build a luxury property in Nigeria, you must be ready to refine the building to the highest taste and brand your company as a respectable luxury front.

Lastly, you can never work alone on luxury real estate. You must have strong networks that will show you what to do, how to do it, and also add to your capital!

Here are some of the leading luxury real estate companies in Nigeria today.

Sujimoto
Luxury Redwood

Lekki Luxury Homes

Please, note that this is not an endorsement for any of them. Kindly do your due diligence before patronizing any of them.

3. Short-Let Rentals (Airbnb Style)

These are Airbnb-style apartments that you mostly find in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. These apartments have witnessed an explosion in demand, mostly because of an increase in weekend stays, relocations, and business travel.

Imagine charging ₦50,000 per night for a 1-bedroom apartment in Lekki. That’s ₦1.5M/month at full-month occupancy.

And yes, some people occupy these kinds of properties because they get a better feeling of control and comfort than a hotel.

How Do Shortlets Make Money?

Offers a higher income than traditional rent
The daily and weekly payment structure allows for more profit flow
It is easily scalable with multiple units

There are two big challenges with this short-let rental style:

It is costlier to manage and maintain
You need to add an extra touch of hospitality, which standard rentals don’t require

4. Commercial Real Estate: Consistent Cash Flow

This is another very profitable real estate investment channel. You can rent out office spaces, event centres, warehouses, and shops to get recurring rent.

One of the most attractive facts about commercial real estate is that you need less emotional management compared to managing residential tenants, who can be more difficult.

Some warehouses near Mile 2 or Apapa lease for ₦5M–₦10M/year, depending on size and access.

Why Commercial Real Estate Makes Money

Longer lease terms (often 3–5 years)
Lower maintenance needs than housing
Tenants tend to default less because they are corporate tenants.

Just like the other real estate types on this list, this form of real estate also requires high capital input. So, if you don't have enough capital base, you should partner with people who do.

Also, a commercial real estate property is only suited for high-demand commercial zones. For instance, a warehouse in Ikorodu may not be a good investment, but an office space in central Abule-Egba or Ogba will be a wise one!

5. Land Banking: Quietly Building Wealth

This is where most Nigerians can start, especially if you’re working with lower capital.

Land banking is simply buying land in undeveloped or semi-developed areas and waiting for the area to develop fully, then selling at a premium price. Some buyers also develop properties on their land later.

For instance, plots in Epe were selling for ₦500K in 2020. Today? ₦3M and rising — thanks to the Lekki-Epe Expressway, the planned new airport, and other government projects like the Fourth Mainland Bridge.

Why is Land Banking Profitable?

It requires little maintenance.
Land is always appreciating.
Can bring you up to 400–800% return in 5–10 years

Pro Tip: Look for land with good titles and buy before road or other projects begin. This is where true ROI hides.

Read Also: Secrets You Should Know Before You Buy Land in Lagos

6. Real Estate + OPM (Other People’s Money)

One secret weapon real estate millionaires use to grow in real estate is leverage — using other people’s money to invest.

You can:

Use real estate installment plans
Partner with friends/family to buy land
Find good land and get buyers, then get commission
Invest in Joint Venture (JV) projects
Get cooperative loans or pension-backed loans

Imagine paying an instalment of ₦300K per month for 10 months for a plot in Omu-Ketu!

That’s land ownership without one-off ₦3M.

Why OPM is Good

OPM scales your real estate portfolio faster
Reduces upfront burden
Allows you to earn while still paying

Warning: Make sure the property is verified and documented before entering a flexible plan.

Profitability vs. Liquidity — Know the Difference

Most people confuse “fast money” with “good money.”
Let me show you an example with this table comparing the top types of real estate investment you just read:

Investment Type	Profit Margin	Speed of ROI	Capital Required
Land Banking	High	Slow (2–5 years)	Low
Shortlets	Medium–High	Fast (monthly)	Medium
Development Projects	Very High	Medium	High
Commercial Leasing	Medium	Slow	High
Luxury Property Sales	High	Medium	Very High

You don’t always need to move fast.

Sometimes, steady wins the race — especially in land investing.

Final Thoughts: So, Which Real Estate Type Pays the Most?

Short-term gain: Shortlets, luxury sales, and development
Long-term wealth: Land banking and commercial rentals
Low-capital option: Land + OPM strategy
High-capital wealth build-up: Full development and joint ventures

The truth is that all real estate types can pay out huge sums of money… but it is all about where you are starting and where you want to get to!

You don’t need ₦50 million to win in real estate.

You need strategy, verified land, and support from people who know what they’re doing.

I’d suggest that you read this post to also discover mistakes to avoid as you invest in Nigerian real estate.

Ready to Start?

At Possila, we help people like you to make smart real estate moves in Nigeria.

You can join hundreds of others who are now building their real estate wealth in high-growth areas with instalment payment plans and full documentation.

Message us today to get started!

by Tayo Aladetoyinbo

Top 7 Types of Real Estate Investment in Nigeria

Having an in-depth knowledge about the different types of real estate investment in Nigeria is a strong determinant to whether you'll succeed or fail in the real estate market.

One of the biggest testimonies I have heard about real estate investment in Nigeria is that it is one of the country's most stable and profitable income sources. But that only works when you know how to combine the best types of real estate investment.

If you want to make the most profit, you have to diversify.

The reason I always advise people to diversify is because of inflation.

If you plan to go all into real estate investment, you must be able to set up plans that will help you in the long and short term to get steady cash flow and long-term equity.

If you are a new investor looking for where to start, you can make long-term plans across these 7 channels.

1. Land Banking

In the crypto industry, investors are sometimes advised to buy and hold. Land banking is the buy-and-hold of real estate.

With land banking, you simply invest in specific locations and then wait for a long time for it to appreciate.

This kind of land is usually virgin, that is, unexplored, but developing, and it is best kept for long-term investment.

But there is a way to select lands for long-term investment. Look out for these factors:

Where are real estate companies buying and keeping land?
Where is the government looking to start some infrastructure
What “remote” part of your state are people constantly relocating to

If you can answer these 3 questions, you have found your treasure!

Why Does Land Banking Work So Well?

It is the cheapest way to start real estate investment in Nigeria
It only requires your patience. You don’t need the extra costs of maintenance
You can get RoI of up to 10x your investment in a 5–10-year window
You have little or no risk attached. Just buy your land, get your documents, and watch it grow.

2. Land Flipping

This is another version of land banking, but it involves a shorter waiting time.

With land flipping, you simply buy land in an area that is already open to development and sell it after the value appreciates.

Unlike land banking, you will need to spend a lot more money to start. Where a plot in an undeveloped area in Ibadan may cost 800,000 for land banking, a plot in Epe may cost up to 5 million.

But you will get your money back faster with the land in Epe.

The reason for this is that the kind of land you buy for land flipping is already open to development. Government projects have started, and people are already building homes, schools, restaurants, and bars.

Why is Land Flipping So Reliable?

The land appreciates fast because of its location
No maintenance costs, too!
You can do it with little capital using installment plans.

3. Rental Property Investment

Nigeria has a housing deficit of over 28 million units! This shows you that rental housing is and will still be in huge demand.

Rental property investment involves building or buying property and renting it out monthly or yearly. You can make money in different ways as a rental investor in Nigeria.

Rents from multi-year leases

This usually happens when you lease out a whole building to a company like banks for a period longer than one year.

As such, they handle everything from maintenance and repairs, depending on the contract.

Rent for a one-year lease

This is the most popular form of rentals. You simply rent out your building to a private individual or a business for just one year.

Short lets and Airbnb

This is becoming quite common. It involves renting out a flat or building for a short time, running from 1 day to 6 months.

This system is best done in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt that have a steady flow of travellers and people seeking relaxation.

Why Is Rental Property a Smart Investment?

Guarantees steady passive income
Your property value increases even as you keep getting rent
Easier to scale gradually. (e.g., room-by-room development)

However, unlike land banking and land flipping, rental property requires more attention and more spending on things like maintenance, repairs, Land Use Charge, and renovations.

4. Real Estate Development

Development is where the big money in real estate is- but you need to learn it patiently before you can make the best out of it!

At development, you simply buy land, build commercial or residential properties on it, then sell or rent it out.

This is where we get structures like shopping complexes, luxury apartments, estate construction, and even the day-to-day “boys' quarters”.

Why Does Real Estate Development Work?

It has a higher profit margin.
You can customize the properties to your preference
Faster resale value in high-demand locations

Note: Real estate development takes a lot of capital to execute. Besides just buying land, you will have to spend on other things like

Construction
Permits
Land use charge
Other unforeseen costs that being a Nigerian will attract

5. Real Estate Investment Trust

If you do want to escape the issues that come with owning and managing a property, REITs are a great place to start!

REITs are an investment style where different investors put their money together to build real estate assets. Then, they can generate income from these real assets through either the sale of land or buildings.

They can also get RoI through rent from the lease of residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

Benefits of Investing in REITs

It promises passive income. Put your money and sit back

You can diversify into multiple types of real estate faster, hence reducing your risk
Professionals help you manage the properties.
Nigerian regulations offer the advantages of reduced corporate tax for REITs

6. Commercial Real Estate Leasing

This is similar to real estate development, but here, you focus on commercial real estate.

Office spaces, warehouses, and retail outlets fall under commercial real estate. The rise of small and medium-scale brands in Nigeria has created a crazy market demand for offices.

If you see an office space today, if you don't act fast, by tomorrow, it would have been taken by someone else!

This shows how viable the commercial real estate space is.

Benefits of Investing in Commercial Real Estate

It gives a higher rental yield
You get long-term tenants. Businesses don’t like changing location often.
Because of these, you have a more stable cash flow

Just like with residential real estate development, commercial real estate involves a lot of cost to build.

This is because you can only build these kinds of properties in already exposed areas, so you may need to spend more on even the most basic things, like land purchase.

7. Cooperative Real Estate Investment

This is very similar to REITs. The only difference is that members of a cooperative have more control over the properties than in an REIT, where you just invest and wait for returns.

This type of real estate investment is very popular among civil servants and other low to middle-income earners.

They come together and contribute money from their salaries monthly.

This helps them to reduce the financial burden they carry monthly.

These investments can take various forms, including

Direct property acquisition
Land banking
Shared ownership of rental properties.

Benefits of Investing in Cooperative Real Estate

Spreading payments over time makes it more affordable
Collective investment reduces the risk of individual exposure to financial loss
Cooperatives get access to better properties because they can negotiate as a registered group, not as an individual

Which Type of Real Estate Investment is Best for You?

Let me be real with you: everything boils down to money. And most Nigerians want to invest, but they don’t earn millions monthly.

But with real estate, there is always a type that accommodates your income level. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Earning Level	Best Real Estate Type
₦200K – ₦1m+	Land Banking (with instalment payments), Cooperative partnerships
₦500K – ₦1M+	Land Flipping (with instalment payments), Cooperative partnerships
₦1M – ₦5M+	Land Flipping, Shortlets, Cooperative Partnerships
₦5M+	Residential and commercial real estate development, Land Flipping (in high-brow areas, with installment payment),

Take This Real Estate Investment Test

I would like to give you a little test. It will help you map out your real estate investment journey in just 2 minutes. Get a little book and a pen to answer this question:

Which of these options describes why you want to buy real estate in Nigeria?

I want to buy and keep it for a few years, and then sell it
I want to buy and keep for my children
I want to buy to save my money from devaluation
I want to buy and build to live
I want to buy and build to rent
I want to buy one because my friends bought one recently
I want to buy because I understand how real estate works and what it can do for me

Tick off all the options that apply to you and send us your answers here.

by Tayo Aladetoyinbo

7 Must-Have Land Documents in Nigeria

With these 7 must-have land documents in Nigeria, you will never have to go to court or fight after buying land again. In this blog post, I will show you how to protect your investment before paying a kobo of your money.

You will also learn what these land documents in Nigeria really do, how you can identify them, and what you can do to verify them, so you will never get scammed.

1. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)

The C of O is the most popular document on this list. It proves that the government officially allocated a specific parcel to you as a buyer.

This is because only the governor of a state has the power to hold and release land to the citizens of that state. So, without the C of O, you are not recognized as a legal resident of that state.

Why Does The C of O Matter?

It confirms the specific reason why you are buying land: residential, agricultural, commercial, industrial, etc.
It allows you to own land for up to 99 years. When the 99 years are over, you can renew it.

How to Verify Your C of O

Simply visit the state's Ministry of Lands where the land is located. It is the most reliable way to check if the land is not yet acquired by someone else or reserved for government use.

Some states, like Lagos, now allow you to confirm a land’s status online through platforms like the eGis Portal . But I would still advise you to use the physical Land Office method because some lands have not been registered on the website yet.

2. Deed of Assignment

I did not mention this document first, but it is the most important document on this list. Many people feel that the C of O is the most important thing, but that is not right.

A Deed is the only document that shows that the land has actually passed from the owner of the land to you.

This means that you now have title to the land, that is, you can do everything an owner is allowed to do on that land.

A deed of assignment is the document that shows the transfer of ownership of land - from the seller to the buyer.

What is the Importance of the Deed of Assignment?

It contains the history of land ownership, that is, the previous and current owners. This is also called the root of title.
Without the Deed, you cannot show that the land was legally transferred to you.
It must be stamped by the state’s Lands Registry and registered.

How to Verify a Deed of Assignment in Nigeria

Check to see if it was drafted by a licensed lawyer
Review to confirm that it was signed by the previous and the current owner
Ensure that it was registered by the Ministry of Land
When making yours, use a licensed lawyer and do well to see that it is signed by the current owner. Also, register it with the Ministry of Lands immediately.

Read Also:14 Mistakes to Avoid as a Real Estate Investor in Nigeria

3. Survey Plan

A survey plan is a document that shows the exact boundaries, size, and location of the land. It also uses coordinates to show you whether or not the land is under government acquisition.

Why Does a Survey Plan Matter?

It is reliable because it is done by a professional licensed surveyor
It saves you from legal troubles, as you can know whether the land is mapped out for government use already or not.
You also need it as part of the documents to use when perfecting your property title. For example, when you apply for a C of O or a building approval

How to Verify a Survey Plan

Submit the survey plan to the Surveyor General’s Office in the respective state. They will cross-check the status of the land to know if it is owned by the person selling it or under government acquisition.

4. Governor’s Consent

Many people mistake the C of O to contain the Governor's consent, but it does not come automatically.

You need the Governor’s consent when you buy land that already has a C of O because no one land can have two C of Os.

This is because the governor is seen under the Land Use Act 1978 as the “Lord” of the land and must therefore approve any sale transaction involving such land.

Therefore, as a buyer, you will also receive the Governor’s consent to show that the governor approves the sales to you.

Why is the Governor’s Consent Important

It proves that the government recognizes a sale of land to you.
It makes a secondary allocation legal, that is, a situation where land with a C of O is sold after being owned by someone else.

How to Verify:

When you want to sell land, use a real estate lawyer to assist in obtaining and registering the Governor’s Consent through the Ministry of Lands.

5. Receipt of Purchase

It may sound basic, but a purchase receipt is important to track the flow of payment from the buyer to the owner.

Many purchasers of land, especially smaller transactions, overlook a receipt of purchase.

Even when you don't have a C of O or other higher land documents in Nigeria but you have a receipt of purchase, it can deliver you from unnecessary land tussles.

I am not saying you shouldn't get the other higher documents... I am only saying that with receipt of purchase in your hands, you can win a legal fight in some instances.

Why Do You Need a Receipt of Purchase?

It is usually requested when you are registering the Deed of Assignment.
It is another way of showing legal ownership as it confirms a financial transaction.
In disputes, you can present it as evidence of payment.

How to Verify:

It must contain the following

Buyer and seller details
Date of transaction
Location of land
Amount paid
Obvious signatures of both parties.

Ensure that you keep both digital and physical copies of your receipts.

6. Deed of Contract/Sale Agreement

This is similar to the Deed of Assignment, but it is different in that it contains the initial agreement between the buyer and seller.

This agreement will detail the terms and conditions of the sale before the full transfer and documentation is completed.

Why Does the Deed of Contract Matter?

It shows mutual consent between both parties.
It is best for instalment payment or other conditions where outright payment is not made.
It can be used to start the documentation process, especially in cases where the Governor’s Consent has not been obtained yet.

How to Verify:

It must be drafted by a lawyer and must include

Witnesses
Agreed timeline for payment
The obligations of the contract
Refund clauses (if any)

Read also: How to Invest in Real Estate in Nigeria Step-by-Step

7. Excision/Gazette

The governor of a state owns the land by law. But they sometimes release the land to the families (the indigenous owners).

Gazette means the governor has released the land to the people and it's published in the newspapers. While excision means the governor has released the land to the families but it has not been published officially.

It is the only proof that such land has been legally released from government acquisition.

If you fail to verify these titles, you can lose your property in court, and the government will take it over.

Why Does an Excision/Gazette Matter?

It protects you from losing your land to the government
Keeps you from buying the wrong land

How to Verify:

Ensure that the document is not tagged with “Excision in Progress”. Until such land is no longer under government acquisition, you must not buy it.

Have your lawyer or your property manager conduct a title search at the Lagos State Land Bureau to confirm the land status.

4 Ways to Protect Yourself from Land Documentation Scams

1. Always Use a Real Estate Lawyer

And only go for the ones with experience in property transactions and land law.

2. Check the Land Registry

Visit the Ministry of Lands or use available online platforms to search for title registration.

3. Request Original Copies

Always insist on seeing original land documents, not just photocopies. Most fake documents are given as photocopies.

4. Be Cautious of “Excision in Progress” Claims

If you get a land document with the claim "Excision in progress", don’t go for it. Until excision is granted officially, such land is still under government acquisition.

Avoid it unless you're investing with risk capital and a long-term plan.

Conclusion

You do not have to lose your money to fake land documentation!

Follow the right steps. Get original and verifiable documents. Follow due process, and you will be saving yourself from legal battles and emotional troubles.

Let these 7 must-have land documents in Nigeria always guide your real estate transactions.

As Possila, we help you find genuine and verified land across Nigeria with the right paperwork in place.

Do you want a list of verified plots with clean documentation?

Send us a message today or book a free consultation to get started.

by Tayo Aladetoyinbo

Real Estate

How to Buy Land in Nigeria While Living Abroad

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Buy Land in Nigeria While Living Abroad

1. Define Your Purpose

2. Research & Shortlist Locations

3. Find a Reliable Real Estate Company or Agent

4. Conduct Virtual Land Inspection

5. Verify Land Documents & Title

6. Secure the Land Legally

7. Make Payment Safely

8. Fence & Secure the Land

Red Flags You Must Avoid When Dealing with a Real Estate Company

1. Rushing You To Pay Up

2. Vague Documentation

3. No Proof of Past Allocations

Documents You Need When Buying Land From Diaspora

Power of Attorney (PoA)

Essential Documents

Diaspora-Friendly Locations

Real-Life Stories of Nigerians Who Successfully Bought Land in Nigeria

Ada, 28, Nurse in Birmingham

Femi, 27 – MSc Student in Canada

Chioma, 32 – Midwife Working in the UK

Common Fears (And How to Handle Them)

What You Should Do

FAQs on How to Buy Land in Nigeria While Living Abroad

How Do I Start Real Estate Investment in Nigeria with ₦500k or Less?

Is ₦500k Enough to Start Real Estate Investment in Nigeria?

The 3 Myths That Keep People from Investing Early in Real Estate

Myth 1: “You need millions to buy land.”

Myth 2: “Cheap land means fake land.”

Myth 3: “If I can’t build now, there’s no point.”

Myth 4: “I am still young”

Practical Ways to Start Real Estate Investment in Nigeria with 500k or Less

1. Installment Payment Plans (IPPs)

2. Land Cooperatives & Real Estate Clubs

3. Joint Ownership with Family or Friends

4. Lease-to-Own Models

Real-Life Stories: Nigerians Who Started Small

Ezekiel, 24 – NYSC Member & Front-End Developer in Osun State

Ada, 29 – Customer Service Rep in Lagos

Femi, 27 – MSc Student in Canada

Chioma, 32 – Midwife Working in the UK

What to Look Out for Before Paying

Starter’s Checklist: How to Begin With ₦500k

FAQs

1. Can I buy land in Lagos with ₦500k?

2. How do I know if a developer is legit?

3. Should I go with a cooperative or a private developer?

4. What happens if I can’t complete installment payments?

5. Can I sell the land if I haven’t finished paying?

So, What Should You DO?

Is Buying Land in Ogun State a Good Investment in 2025?

Why Land in Ogun State Is on the Radar in 2025

Key Infrastructure Driving Growth in Ogun State

Infrastructural development in Ogun State That Increases Real Estate Value

1. Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

2. The Sagamu Interchange Industrial Expansion

3. The ongoing construction of the Agro-Cargo International Airport in Iperu-Remo near Sagamu

Top 4 Locations to Buy Land In Ogun State

1. Ifo

2. Ota

3. Mowe/Ofada

4. Omu-Ketu

Key Risks You Should Know About Buying Land in Ogun State

Title Disputes

Swampy Land or Poor Building Structure

Unlicensed Developers

Are You One of Those Who Can Invest in Ogun Land?

Final Thoughts: Is Buying Land in Ogun State a Good Investment?

FAQs

Is land in Ogun safer to buy than in Lagos?

What’s the best part of Ogun for rentals?

Can I resell land quickly in Ogun?

What documents should I ask for?

Are developers in Ogun reliable?

Key Differences Between Residential and Commercial Real Estate

Residential Real Estate v Commercial Real Estate

1. Purpose and Usage

2. Investment Entry and Financing