How to Identify Genuine and Approved Real Property in Lagos and Other Parts of Nigeria

Introduction

Every year, thousands of Nigerians lose money to real estate scams. From fake land titles to double allocations, the property market in Nigeria , especially in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt , is filled with opportunities but also high risks.

The excitement of owning a piece of Nigeria’s booming real estate sector often makes people overlook crucial checks. Whether you’re buying for investment, residential living, or commercial use, it’s important to verify that the property is genuine, government-approved, and free from dispute.

In this article, we’ll explore how to identify legitimate properties in Nigeria, key documents to verify, and how platforms like TBIL Property are simplifying the buying and verification process for Nigerians both home and abroad.

1. Understand the Legal Framework of Real Estate in Nigeria

Before diving into property acquisition, it’s essential to understand how land ownership works in Nigeria.

The Land Use Act of 1978 vests all land in each state in the hands of the Governor, who holds it in trust for the people. This means that every land , whether urban or rural , must be allocated, recognized, and recorded through the state government.

In Lagos, the Lagos State Land Bureau and Office of the Surveyor-General oversee land documentation, registration, and title verification.

Why this matters:
If a property isn’t recognized by the state, it may be under government acquisition, family dispute, or already sold to multiple buyers , all of which can lead to loss of investment.

2.  Verify the Land Title Documents

One of the most crucial steps in identifying a genuine property is verifying the title document. There are several types of land titles in Nigeria, but not all carry the same level of security.

Here’s a breakdown of the common ones:

Expert Tip: Always confirm the survey plan number and C of O number with the relevant state authority before paying for any property.

Use TBIL Property’s Verified Listings to explore pre-checked, government-approved properties with valid documentation.

3. Conduct a Land Search at the Land Registry

This is one of the most reliable ways to confirm authenticity. A search at the Lagos State Land Registry or its equivalent in other states reveals whether:

• The property is under government acquisition,
  
• It has a valid title (C of O, Governor’s Consent), and
  
• Whether it has been used as collateral for a loan. 

How to Do a Land Search in Lagos:

1. Visit the Land Bureau (Alausa, Ikeja).
   
2. Submit a copy of the survey plan or C of O.
   
3. Pay the required search fee.
   
4. Collect a report confirming the land’s status. 

Pro Tip: If you’re buying from family or private sellers, hire a real estate lawyer or use a trusted property consultant like TBIL Property Advisory Service to conduct the search on your behalf.

4. Check the Survey Plan for Authenticity

A survey plan defines the boundaries and size of the land, often using coordinates linked to the Nigerian Geodetic System.

Every survey plan should:

• Be signed by a licensed surveyor,
  
• Include the Surveyor’s seal and registration number,
  
• Carry accurate land coordinates (you can confirm them with the Office of the Surveyor-General). 

To verify authenticity, cross-check the survey plan number on the Surveyor-General’s portal or registry. This helps you detect forged or duplicated documents.

Many TBIL Property listings include verified survey documents and boundary details for buyer confidence.

5. Avoid Buying from “Omo-Onile” Without Proper Documentation

“Omo-Onile” , meaning landowners or local families claiming ancestral ownership , are common in Lagos and Ogun State. While not all are fraudulent, many sell government-acquired lands or resell the same plot to multiple buyers.

If you must buy from an Omo-Onile family, ensure:

• The Baale (local chief) or family head is present at every transaction.
  
• The family provides a deed of assignment and family consent letter.
  
• The survey and land title are confirmed genuine through a search. 

Warning: Paying Omo-Onile without proper documentation exposes you to land disputes or demolition risks.

Tip: Buy only from verified estate developers through TBIL Property’s secure marketplace , where every property is verified and traceable.

6. Confirm Development Approvals (For Estate Projects)

If you’re buying a property within a private estate, make sure the estate developer has the necessary approvals from state authorities such as:

• Development Permit
  
• Building Plan Approval
  
• Layout Approval 

Unapproved estate projects can face government demolition or legal injunctions. You can confirm approvals directly at the Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) in Lagos or through professional agents.

Pro Tip: At TBIL Property, we only partner with developers whose estates are government-recognized and fully approved. This ensures your investment remains safe and legal.

7. Confirm Payment Channels and Receipts

A legitimate seller or developer will issue:

• Official receipts on company letterhead.
  
• A Deed of Assignment drafted and signed by a lawyer.
  
• Governor’s Consent (for secondary sale). 

Avoid cash payments , always pay through bank transfer to the developer’s or company’s official account.

Why this matters: It creates an audit trail that proves your payment in the event of a dispute.

For example, TBIL Property’s transaction process ensures digital receipts, verification certificates, and legal documentation are issued before closing any deal.

8. Verify Real Estate Agents and Developers

With the rise of social media realtors, it’s important to confirm that the person or company selling property is registered and traceable.

In Lagos, the Association of Real Estate Practitioners (AREPN) and Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA) maintain lists of licensed agents.

You can verify a realtor or company by:

• Checking their Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration.
  
• Visiting their physical office.
  
• Reviewing past projects or client testimonials. 

All TBIL Property partners and agents are vetted, registered, and verified by state authorities , ensuring transparency and security for every buyer.

9. Get a Property Lawyer Involved

Never finalize a land purchase without involving a real estate lawyer. They will:

• Verify all documents,
  
• Draft and review your Deed of Assignment, and
  
• Ensure compliance with state land laws. 

While this adds a small cost upfront, it can save millions in potential losses later.

At TBIL Property, our legal advisory partners handle property documentation, verification, and title transfers professionally.

10. Inspect the Property Physically

Before you pay for any property, visit the site yourself (or send a trusted representative). Confirm:

• The exact location matches the documents.
  
• The land is accessible, dry, and undeveloped by others.
  
• There are no existing disputes or encroachments. 

Using platforms like TBIL Property, you can view verified properties with photo evidence, coordinates, and agent details before scheduling physical inspections.

11. Buy Only from Verified Developers and Trusted Platforms

Given the complexity of property verification in Nigeria, the safest way to buy is through verified real estate marketplaces.

Platforms like TBIL Property are bridging the gap between developers, agents, and buyers, offering:

• Verified listings with title authenticity checks.
  
• Secure payment options.
  
• Customer support for property documentation.
  
• Property management and resale services. 

Whether you’re a Nigerian in the diaspora looking to invest back home or a first-time buyer in Lagos, TBIL Property ensures that your real estate journey is transparent, safe, and rewarding.

 Conclusion

The Nigerian real estate market is booming , but only the informed thrive. Verifying the authenticity of your property isn’t optional; it’s the foundation of a secure investment.

From land titles to surveys, receipts, and approvals, every step counts toward protecting your hard-earned money.

And when you work with a trusted partner like TBIL Property, you gain more than just a plot of land , you gain peace of mind.

 Backlinks Recap

• TBIL Property Official Website
• Verified Property Listings
• Marketplace for Trusted Developers
• Real Estate Legal & Advisory Services
• About TBIL Property