Business
Responses That Should Turn You Off While Doing Due Diligence in Nigeria’s Real Estate By Dennis Isong
Don’t Worry, the Land is Clean” Whenever a seller or agent says, “Don’t worry, trust me,” without providing proof, you should immediately worry. In Nigeria’s real estate market, trust is earned, not assumed.

Let me share a story. A painful one. In November 2023, I met Chika, a young entrepreneur full of ambition.
She had saved for three years to buy her first plot of land in Lagos.
She dreamed of building her own bakery there someday—a dream she’d nurtured since childhood. Chika found a seller through a friend’s recommendation.
The location seemed perfect, and the price was “a steal.” When she began asking basic questions during due diligence, the seller’s responses were… strange.
When she asked about the land’s title, the seller waved her off. “Ah, no need to stress yourself. Trust me, this land is clean!” he said, flashing a reassuring smile.
When she pressed further, he added, “See, other buyers are waiting. If you waste time, someone else will grab it!” Against her better judgment, Chika paid.
The fear of missing out overpowered her. Months later, she discovered that the land was already sold to two other buyers.
Her N3 million vanished. Her bakery dream was shattered. She sat in my office, teary-eyed, asking, “Dennis, why didn’t I see the red flags?
How could I have been so blind?” Her story is a painful reminder that some responses during due diligence are major red flags.
If you hear any of the following phrases or behaviors, it’s time to step back and protect yourself.
1. “Don’t Worry, the Land is Clean” Whenever a seller or agent says, “Don’t worry, trust me,” without providing proof, you should immediately worry. In Nigeria’s real estate market, trust is earned, not assumed.
A land being “clean” means it is free of disputes, government acquisition, or other issues. If the seller refuses to provide documents like the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), Deed of Assignment, or Survey Plan, it’s a glaring warning sign. What they’re really saying is, “I have something to hide, and I don’t want you to find out.”
2. “You Don’t Need a Lawyer” Ah, this one. Many shady sellers will try to convince you that involving a lawyer is unnecessary. They’ll say things like:
● “I’ve done this for years; lawyers just want to collect your money.”
● “You’ll waste time if you involve a lawyer.” This is manipulation, plain and simple. A lawyer ensures that all documents are valid and protects you from legal pitfalls. If someone discourages you from hiring a lawyer, it’s a sign they’re trying to cut corners—and possibly scam you.
3. “The Price Will Increase Tomorrow” Pressure tactics are a classic move in real estate fraud. When a seller tells you, “Other buyers are waiting,” or “If you don’t pay today, the price will go up tomorrow,” it’s often a ploy to rush you into making a hasty decision.
Think about it: Why would a genuine seller rush you? Good land doesn’t sell itself in one day, especially when proper documentation is involved. If they’re pushing you to act fast, it’s likely because they don’t want you to uncover the truth.
4. “I’ll Handle All the Documents for You” While it may sound convenient, a seller offering to handle all documentation should raise your suspicions. Why don’t they want you to see the process?
Here’s the truth: handling documentation gives you control and ensures transparency. If you blindly trust a seller to “take care of it all,” you might end up with fake or incomplete papers.
5. “It’s Family Land; We Don’t Have Titles Yet” In Nigeria, many disputes arise from “family land.” Sellers often claim they inherited the land and don’t have titles yet but promise to “regularize” the documents after you pay.
This is risky. Without proper titles, you could be buying into a web of family disputes. If they can’t produce a clear document, walk away.
6. “You Don’t Need to Inspect the Land” Imagine paying for land you’ve never seen. Unbelievable, right? Yet, it happens more often than you think. Some sellers will discourage you from inspecting the property by saying:
● “The land is far; I’ll show you pictures.”
● “The area is still developing, but it’s a good investment.” Never buy land without seeing it yourself—or better still, with a professional surveyor. Pictures can be deceiving, and some sellers will show you land that doesn’t even exist. 7. “Don’t Involve the Community” In many parts of Nigeria, land transactions involve local communities or traditional rulers. Some sellers, however, will warn you not to speak to the community, saying:
● “They’ll confuse you.”
● “The land doesn’t concern them.” This is a major red flag. Communities often have valuable information about the land, including its history, disputes, or encumbrances. If a seller is trying to cut them out of the process, something is likely wrong.
8. “The Survey Plan is With Someone Else” The survey plan is a crucial document that shows the exact location and size of the land. If a seller says it’s “with someone else” or promises to provide it after payment, be careful.
How can you verify what you’re buying without a survey plan? This excuse often hides fraudulent intentions.
9. “Don’t Worry About a Search; It’s Stressful” Conducting a search at the land registry is one of the most critical steps in due diligence. It confirms whether the land has a valid title and is free from disputes.
If a seller tells you not to bother, they’re trying to hide something. The search process might take time, but it’s worth every second.
10. “Just Trust Me” Finally, the ultimate red flag is when a seller relies solely on trust without offering proof. Real estate is a business transaction, not a friendship. Trust is good, but documents are better. How to Protect Yourself
• Ask Questions: Don’t feel intimidated. Ask for every document—C of O, Deed of Assignment, Survey Plan, and any other relevant papers.
• Hire a Professional: Get a lawyer, surveyor, or real estate expert to guide you.
• Do a Search: Visit the land registry to verify the property’s status.
• Visit the Land: Inspect the property yourself to confirm its existence and condition.
• Involve the Community: Speak to locals to understand the land’s history and avoid disputes.
Final Thoughts Chika’s story—and countless others like it—reminds us of one thing: due diligence is not negotiable.
If a seller’s responses sound suspicious or dismissive, take a step back. It’s better to miss out on a deal than to lose your hard-earned money.
In Nigeria’s real estate market, red flags are everywhere. Your job is to spot them, avoid them, and protect your investment. Don’t let pressure or promises cloud your judgment.
Always remember: it’s better to walk away than to walk into trouble. Your investment deserves protection. Don’t rush. Don’t assume. Verify everything.
Written by Dennis Isong, your trusted partner in Nigeria’s real estate market. Let’s guide you to safe and profitable property investments.
Business
“Only 37% of Nigerian roads are in good condition ” – MAN
The Nigerian government holds the primary responsibility for creating an enabling environment to unlock the manufacturing sector’s potential.

L-R: MD Coleman Wires and Cables industries limited, Mr. George Onafowokan, DG MAN, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, and Mr. Adetunji Aderinto, founder Zetamind consulting limited at a conference organized by Business Day in Lagos on Thursday.
“Only 37 percent of Nigerian roads are in good condition, which continues to increase production and transportation costs, making Nigerian products less competitive.”
“Segun Ajayi-Kadir, the Director – General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), gave this statistics during the 2025 Manufacturing Conference organized by BusinessDay in Lagos, with the theme: “Unlocking Nigeria’s Manufacturing Potential: Strategies for Sustainable Growth Amid Economic Turbulence.”
Ajayi-Kadir noted that while recent improvements in infrastructure is commendable, there’s need for investing significantly in critical transport infrastructure — roads, ports, and industrial corridors — to reduce logistics bottlenecks and improve market access.
He stated, “The Nigerian government holds the primary responsibility for creating an enabling environment to unlock the manufacturing sector’s potential.
This requires strategic action across infrastructure, fiscal policy, and regional integration.”
Ajayi-Kadir acknowledged the passage of four tax reform bills aimed at streamlining the tax system and praised the government’s “Nigeria First Policy.”
However, he emphasized the need for swift and effective implementation.
He further recommended making the Nigeria First Policy a binding law, with penalties for violators, to ensure transparency, public awareness, and enforcement.
Ajayi-Kadir further called for establishing structured platforms for regular consultations with manufacturers to align policies with industry needs.
“There is need for setting up systems for timely and relevant export data sharing through embassies, trade attachés, and relevant agencies to help manufacturers access global markets.
Also ensuring consistent and transparent policy-making to boost investor confidence and foster long-term growth.”
The Managing Director of Coleman Wires and Cables Industries Limited, Mr. George Onafowokan, noted that more foreign investors are entering Nigeria to establish businesses despite prevailing economic challenges, even as some local businesses continue to complain about the operating environment.
He urged Nigerian manufacturers to look inward and explore the abundant opportunities within the country to boost their enterprises.
In the same vein, Adetunji Aderinto, founder of Zetamind Consulting Limited and a fellow panelist, remarked that foreign investors often recognize prospects in the Nigerian market that many local manufacturers overlook.
He advised manufacturers to reduce costs through technology adoption and data utilization.
“Some manufacturers shut down operations because they don’t understand what their customers need. They need to increase market share and strengthen their supply chains,” Aderinto added.
The Director -General of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Mr. Olusola Obadimu, called on the Federal Government and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to take urgent steps to curb inflation.
He also urged state governments to focus more on people-centric development rather than internally generated revenue alone.
The panelists collectively encouraged Nigerians to patronize locally made products and commended the Federal Government’s efforts in promoting the “Buy Nigeria” campaign.
Business
Complete List of Documents You Need to Buy Land in Lagos by Dennis Isong
And if you’re serious about doing it right, reach out to someone who knows the Lagos real estate landscape like the back of his hand. Someone like, well… me.

Always confirm documents from the Lagos State Land Registry and avoid cash-only deals without paperwork.
Buying land in Lagos can be a rewarding move—whether you’re planning to build a home, invest for the future, or start a commercial project.
But while the opportunities are exciting, the process isn’t as straightforward as just paying and getting a receipt.
Lagos, like many parts of Nigeria, has its peculiar legal and property documentation system, and understanding this system can be the difference between owning your land and losing your hard-earned money.
If you’re thinking about land ownership in this dynamic city, then knowing the documents you need to buy land in Lagos is not just helpful—it’s essential.
These documents are your only legal shield in a city where land disputes and multiple claims are far too common.
Let’s break it all down in a way that’s easy to understand.
First Things First: Why Documentation Matters
In Lagos, land ownership is often a maze.
There’s family land, government-acquired land, excised land, and committed land. Many buyers have found themselves entangled in court cases or financial loss simply because they didn’t know what papers to ask for.
Documents give your land transaction structure and legality. Without them, your ownership is shaky at best and fraudulent at worst.
Now let’s walk through the key documents you must check for—and get—before buying land in Lagos.
The Survey Plan
This is the starting point. A survey plan shows the exact location and measurements of the land. It tells you where the land is and how big it is.
More importantly, it helps confirm if the land falls within a government-acquired or committed area.
Government-acquired lands are off-limits unless the land has been officially released (excised).
A verified survey plan will also tell you whether the land has been registered before.
To be on the safe side, always take the survey plan to a registered surveyor or the Lagos State Surveyor General’s office for charting.
That way, you know you’re not buying into trouble.
The Deed of Assignment
when land changes hands—from seller to buyer—a Deed of Assignment is what captures that transfer.
This document states the details of the transaction: who sold it, who bought it, the size of the land, the location, and the terms of sale.
It must also indicate the history of ownership—how the seller came to own the land in the first place.
This document is legally powerful and must be prepared by a property lawyer. After signing, it should be submitted for Governor’s Consent, which we’ll explain shortly.
A Deed of Assignment without proper registration is like buying a car and not transferring the papers—ownership can easily be disputed.
The Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
Now, this is one of the most talked-about property documents in Lagos.
The Certificate of Occupancy, often called the “C of O,” is proof that the government officially recognizes someone’s right to occupy a piece of land for 99 years.
If a land has a C of O, it means the land has been titled and recognized by the Lagos State Government.
Not all lands have this document, and that doesn’t always mean it’s illegal—but buying land with a valid C of O is the safest route.
It reduces the risk of future government interference and makes getting loans or building approvals easier. However, it’s important to confirm that the C of O truly belongs to the land you’re buying. Cross-check with the Ministry of Lands to be sure.
The Governor’s Consent
This one often confuses people. If a land already has a C of O and is being sold to someone else, the new buyer must obtain the Governor’s Consent.
Why? Because under Nigerian land law, no land transaction is considered fully legal without the consent of the Governor of the state.
The Governor’s Consent is not a casual formality—it’s a legal requirement. Without it, the sale remains incomplete in the eyes of the law. It’s part of what turns your Deed of Assignment into a fully recognized document.
The Gazette
Now, not all lands in Lagos are initially free from government acquisition. Some are acquired by the government but later released to the original landowners—often communities—through a formal process.
When this happens, the release is published in an official record called a Gazette.
A Gazette shows that the land has been excised, meaning it is no longer under government acquisition and can now be owned and sold legally. If the land you’re planning to buy falls under this category, ask for the Gazette and verify it.
Buying land with a valid Gazette is better than buying land with nothing at all, but still not as solid as a C of O.
The Receipt
Yes, it sounds basic, but the purchase receipt is also important. It shows that money has exchanged hands and helps to track the financial side of the transaction.
It includes the date of purchase, the amount paid, the names of both parties, and the description of the land.
While a receipt alone doesn’t mean you now own land, it complements your other documents—especially the Deed of Assignment.
The Contract of Sale
This is sometimes prepared before the Deed of Assignment. It outlines the agreement between both parties before the land is officially transferred. Think of it as a promise-to-sell document.
It usually spells out payment terms (e.g., installments), timelines, and other conditions of the sale.
It’s useful in cases where payment is staggered over time or where the buyer needs a few months to perfect documents.
However, it is not a substitute for the Deed of Assignment.
Family or Community Consent (if it’s family land)
If you’re buying land from a family or community—which is still common in Lagos—you must get the consent of all principal family members or the land-owning community heads.
This is very important. If just one person signs and others later disagree, your ownership could be challenged.
Many people have found themselves battling “omo onile” (land touts or family claimants) simply because they didn’t get proper family or community consent.
Ensure a family resolution or legal confirmation is obtained.
Government Allocation Letter (for government schemes)
If you’re buying land from a government housing scheme or state-owned development, you’ll receive a Government Allocation Letter. This letter assigns the land to you and states the terms under which you can occupy it.
This letter usually comes before the C of O is issued, and it’s your first legal evidence of land allocation.
It is very common in places like Lekki and other government-developed areas in Lagos.
Conclusion: Don’t Just Buy Land—Buy Peace of Mind
Buying land in Lagos is a serious investment. And while the market is full of promises, it’s also full of pitfalls. Knowing the documents you need to buy land in Lagos can help you avoid heartache and financial loss.
Whether you’re buying land with a C of O, a Gazette, or through a Deed of Assignment, make sure everything is checked, verified, and registered properly.
Don’t just depend on what the seller says. Involve professionals—real estate lawyers, surveyors, and agents who understand Lagos terrain.
Always confirm documents from the Lagos State Land Registry and avoid cash-only deals without paperwork.
The right documents protect your ownership today and into the future.
If you’re ever in doubt, ask questions.
And if you’re serious about doing it right, reach out to someone who knows the Lagos real estate landscape like the back of his hand. Someone like, well… me.
Business
EFCC boss fingers insider-aided cyber attacks on Nigerian banks
…Bank employees have played a crucial role in granting unauthorized access to hackers operating from countries including the United States and Eastern Europe.

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Barrister Ola Olukoyede, has raised concerns over a wave of sophisticated cyberattacks targeting Nigerian banks, revealing that insiders are collaborating with foreign hackers to siphon off billions of naira.
Olukoyede spoke on TVC News’ Journalists Hangout and disclosed that six commercial banks have been hit by coordinated cyber intrusions involving a syndicate of local and international criminals exploiting internal vulnerability.
He emphasised that compromised bank employees have played a crucial role in granting unauthorized access to hackers operating from countries including the United States and Eastern Europe.
” Once access is gained, the attackers swiftly transfer large sums of money within seconds.
“These are highly coordinated attacks, and insiders play a critical role. In some cases, billions were moved in a matter of moments, but we were able to recover N9.7 billion, N6.7 billion, and N3.7 billion in three separate incidents,” said Olukoyede.
He clarified that while the attacks are severe, the institutions are not to blame. Rather, the breaches stem from the actions of rogue staff.
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