If you’re thinking of buying land—whether in Abuja, Lagos, or anywhere across Nigeria—there’s one document that can make or break your investment:

The Certificate of Occupancy (C of O).

At Dankaka Realtor, we always advise our clients: “Don’t just buy land—buy secure land.” And understanding the C of O is a big part of that.

📜 What Exactly is a C of O?

A Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is a legal document issued by the state or federal government that officially grants you the right to occupy and use a specific parcel of land for a set period (usually 99 years in Nigeria).

It confirms that:

• The land is not under government acquisition.
• You are the recognized owner (tenant of the government).
• You have the legal right to develop, sell, lease, or transfer the land.

🧾 Key Details Found on a C of O:

• The name of the landowner
• The land size and exact location
• The land use purpose (residential, commercial, agricultural)
• The term and commencement date
• Official government seal and registration number

⚠️ Why the C of O is So Important

Buying land without a C of O is like driving a car without a license—possible, but risky. Here’s why the C of O matters:

✅ 1. It Proves Ownership Legally

It’s the strongest proof that you truly own the land. Without it, someone else may claim rights over it—or worse, the government may repossess it.

✅ 2. Protects You from Scams

Fake land sales are common in Nigeria. A genuine C of O protects you from buying “family land” or government-acquired plots with no clear titles.

✅ 3. You Can Build or Develop Freely

To get a building permit or utility connections (like water and electricity), many local authorities require a C of O.

✅ 4. It Increases Your Property’s Value

Land with a valid C of O is more valuable, easier to resell, and trusted by banks or mortgage institutions.

✅ 5. Enables You to Access Loans or Grants

Some banks and financial institutions accept land with a C of O as collateral for loans or financing.

❌ What Happens If Land Doesn’t Have a C of O?

Not all land in Nigeria has a C of O—some come with:

• R of O (Right of Occupancy)
• Deed of Assignment
• Gazette Land (recognized community land)
• Or worse: No document at all

These can be risky or may require extra legal steps before you build or resell.

🔍 How to Verify a C of O

Before buying, always ask for a copy of the C of O and verify it at the state’s Land Registry or Geographic Information System (GIS) office.

Or better yet, let professionals like us handle it.

🏢 At Dankaka Realtor, We Only Offer Safe Land

Every property we list has clean, verified documentation—including C of Os or equivalent titles. We help you:

• Inspect land physically
• Confirm documents legally
• Register your ownership with the government

📞 Ready to Buy Verified Land with a C of O?

Contact us today
Or chat with us on WhatsApp to view available plots with C of O in Abuja, Lagos, and beyond.