When buying land in Nigeria, one of the biggest mistakes investors make is assuming that any document equals ownership. In reality, the type of title a property carries determines how secure your investment truly is.
Two of the most common land documents you’ll hear about are the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) and Governor’s Consent. They are not the same — and understanding the difference can save you from costly legal battles.
Let’s break it down clearly.
- What Is a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)?
A Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is an official document issued by the state government confirming that a person or company has been granted legal rights to occupy and use a piece of land for a specific period — usually 99 years.
Under the Land Use Act of 1978, all land in a state is vested in the Governor, who holds it in trust for the people. When you receive a C of O, it means:
The government has recognized you as the lawful holder of that land.
The land is properly recorded in government records.
The land is not under acquisition or government dispute (at the time of issuance).
You have legal backing to use the land for approved purposes.
When Is a C of O Issued?
A C of O is typically issued when:
You apply directly to the government for land.
You regularize land purchased from a family or community without an existing registered title.
A developer processes a C of O for an estate.
Why It Matters
A C of O:
Increases property value.
Makes it easier to obtain bank loans.
Protects you from future ownership disputes.
Gives stronger legal standing in court.
- What Is Governor’s Consent?
Governor’s Consent is not a fresh title. It is an approval granted by the Governor when ownership of land with an existing C of O is transferred from one person to another.
According to the Land Use Act, once land has a C of O, the holder cannot legally transfer ownership without the Governor’s approval. That approval is called Governor’s Consent.
When Is Governor’s Consent Needed?
It is required when:
You buy land that already has a C of O.
Ownership of a titled property changes hands.
You are perfecting title after purchase.
What It Means
Governor’s Consent:
Validates the transfer of ownership.
Records your name officially as the new owner.
Protects you from future disputes about improper transfer.
Without it, your purchase may be considered legally incomplete.
- Key Differences: C of O vs Governor’s Consent
Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) Governor’s Consent
Original title document Approval of ownership transfer
Issued when land is first allocated or regularized Issued when land ownership changes
Confirms legal right to occupy land Confirms legal right to transfer land
Usually valid for 99 years Validates new owner’s interest
In simple terms:
C of O establishes ownership.
Governor’s Consent confirms transfer of ownership.
- Common Misconceptions
“If land has a C of O, I don’t need anything else.”
Not true. If you’re buying from someone, you must process Governor’s Consent to make the transfer legally binding.
“Governor’s Consent is stronger than C of O.”
No. Governor’s Consent depends on an existing C of O. It does not replace it.
“Any document from a family or community is enough.”
Family receipts and agreements are not sufficient legal titles unless properly regularized and documented with government approval.
- Which One Should You Look For?
It depends on the property:
If you are buying from a government allocation → Ensure there is a valid C of O.
If you are buying from an individual who already has a C of O → Ensure Governor’s Consent is processed in your name.
If you are buying land without a registered title → Consider proper title regularization.
- Why Proper Title Verification Is Critical
Nigeria’s real estate market offers incredible opportunities — but only when due diligence is done properly. Buying land without understanding its title can lead to:
Multiple sales disputes
Government demolition
Inability to resell
Court cases
Loss of investment
Proper documentation is not an expense — it is protection.
Real estate is not just about location and price. It is about security, legality, and long-term value.
Before committing to any property:
Verify the title.
Confirm government records.
Understand whether you need a C of O or Governor’s Consent.
Work with professionals who prioritize transparency.
Your property should give you peace of mind — not problems.
At Owamwen, we prioritize transparency, proper documentation, and verified titles across Nigeria.
Thinking of buying land?
Contact us today for consultation and safe property acquisition.