C of O, Governor’s Consent and Building Approval: what the title documents on a Lagos listing mean

When you look at a property for sale in Lagos, the price and the photos get your attention first. The title document deserves as much attention, because it decides whether what you are buying is really yours. Every property on our site lists its title so you can ask the right questions early.

Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)

A C of O is issued by the Lagos State Government. It confirms that the holder has a legal right to occupy and use the land for a stated period, usually 99 years. Under the Land Use Act, land in the state is held in trust by the Governor, so the C of O is the state’s formal recognition of your interest in that land.

Governor’s Consent

When land that already has a C of O changes hands, the new owner needs the Governor’s Consent for that transfer. Without it, the transaction is not fully recognised by the state. On resale properties, Governor’s Consent is often the document you want to see, because it shows the seller’s own purchase was properly registered.

Building Approval

Building Approval (a building permit) shows that the structure itself was approved by the Lagos State planning authorities. A valid land title does not mean the building on it was approved. Unapproved buildings can face penalties or demolition, so on a finished house we look for both the land title and the approval.

Other documents you may hear about

• Deed of Assignment: the agreement that transfers the property from seller to buyer. It is then registered with the Governor’s Consent.
• Excision and Gazette: used where land was acquired from a family or community and has been released from government acquisition.
• Survey plan: shows the exact boundaries and coordinates of the land. It should match the title and the land you inspect.

What to do before you pay

• Ask for copies of the title and the survey plan before you commit.
• Have a property lawyer run a search at the Lagos State Lands Registry.
• Confirm the seller’s name on the documents matches the person you are dealing with.
• Pay into a traceable account and get receipts for every payment.

We are happy to walk you through the documents on any property we list. We still recommend that every buyer uses their own lawyer. It is a small cost compared with the value of the home.