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The Role of Certificate of Occupancy in Property Valuation Method in Nigeria by Dennis Isong
In Nigeria’s real estate landscape, property valuation serves as a crucial process that determines the worth of a property for various purposes, including buying, selling, and securing loans.
One significant document that plays a pivotal role in this process is the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O). This legal document, issued by the state government, confirms an individual’s right to use and occupy land for a specified period.
Understanding the interplay between the C of O and property valuation is essential for investors, developers, and homeowners alike, as it can significantly influence market perceptions and property prices.
Understanding the Certificate of Occupancy
The Certificate of Occupancy is a legal document that signifies ownership and the right to occupy land.
In Nigeria, land ownership is primarily governed by statutory laws, customary laws, and the Land Use Act of 1978, which mandates that all land in urban areas is owned by the government.
Thus, the issuance of a C of O is necessary to establish a legal claim over any parcel of land. Obtaining a C of O is a comprehensive process that involves several steps, including land survey, payment of necessary fees, and completion of relevant documentation.
Once issued, the C of O provides security to the landowner by guaranteeing their rights against unlawful eviction or encroachment.
This security is a significant factor in property valuation. Properties with a valid C of O are generally seen as more valuable and less risky compared to those without, as the certificate signifies legal recognition and ownership rights.
C of O and Market Perception
The presence of a C of O can significantly influence market perception and the demand for a property. Properties with a valid Certificate of Occupancy are typically viewed as more desirable by potential buyers and investors.
This perception stems from the legal security that a C of O provides. Buyers are more likely to invest in properties with a C of O because they have assurance that their rights are protected, and the likelihood of disputes regarding ownership is minimized.
Moreover, lenders and financial institutions often require a C of O before approving loans for property purchases or developments.
A valid C of O enhances the credibility of the property, making it easier for buyers to secure financing.
In Nigeria, a C of O is usually granted for 99 years, and this long tenure can positively influence a property’s valuation.
This accessibility to finance, in turn, can lead to increased property demand, thereby driving up its valuation.
Conversely, properties lacking a C of O may be perceived as risky investments, resulting in lower valuations and reduced buyer interest.
Thus, the C of O serves as a critical indicator of a property’s reliability and marketability.
C of O in the Property Valuation Process
In the property valuation process, a valuer considers various factors to determine the value of a property. These factors typically include location, size, condition, and comparable sales in the area. However, the existence of a C of O is often a prominent consideration.
During the valuation process, valuers will assess the C of O to ascertain the legal standing of the property.
A valid C of O not only confirms ownership but also indicates compliance with local land use regulations, zoning laws, and building codes. Valuers may also take into account the duration of the C of O.
In Nigeria, a C of O is usually granted for 99 years, and this long tenure can positively influence a property’s valuation.
The security provided by a long-term C of O assures potential buyers of their rights over the property for an extended period, making it a more attractive investment.
Conversely, properties without a C of O, or those with expired or disputed certificates, may be valued lower due to the inherent risks associated with such properties.
Furthermore, a C of O can impact future development potential, which is a crucial aspect of property valuation.
Properties with a valid C of O are more likely to receive the necessary approvals for development or alteration, while those without may face legal hurdles.
This potential for development can enhance the property’s value, as it indicates future income generation possibilities.
Consequently, valuers consider the C of O as a critical factor that influences the overall worth of the property in the market.
Challenges and Implications of C of O in Property Valuation
Despite its importance, the C of O is not without challenges. The process of obtaining a C of O can be lengthy and complex, leading to delays in property transactions.
In some cases, disputes over land ownership can arise, particularly in areas where customary land tenure systems are prevalent.
These disputes can complicate the valuation process, as properties with contentious C of Os may be difficult to sell and consequently valued lower.
Additionally, the presence of a C of O does not automatically guarantee a problem-free investment. Factors such as environmental issues, development restrictions, or changes in land use policies can affect property value.
Valuers must therefore conduct thorough due diligence, considering not only the existence of a C of O but also any associated risks or liabilities.
In conclusion, the Certificate of Occupancy plays a crucial role in property valuation methods in Nigeria.
As a legal document that signifies ownership and security, it significantly influences market perception and property demand.
Valuers must consider the C of O when assessing a property’s value, as it reflects the legal standing and development potential of the land.
However, challenges associated with the C of O, such as ownership disputes and regulatory complexities, must also be navigated to ensure accurate valuations.
For stakeholders in the Nigerian real estate market, understanding the importance of the C of O is vital for making informed investment decisions and maximizing property value.
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The Police Service Commission (PSC) has promoted seven Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) to the rank of Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) in a strategic move to bolster the leadership cadre of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
The promotions, announced on Friday, March 6, 2026, followed a thorough evaluation process involving merit-based assessments, seniority considerations, service records, written examinations, and oral interviews held at the PSC’s Corporate Headquarters in Abuja.
The newly elevated officers are:
– Zachariah Fera Achinyan, fdc (formerly AIG Zone 4, Makurdi)
– Zango Ibrahim Baba (formerly AIG Department of Logistics and Supply)
– Isyaku Mohammed (formerly AIG Armament, Force Headquarters, Abuja)
– Margaret Agebe Ochalla (formerly AIG FCID Annex, Lagos)
– Mohammed Abdul Sulaiman, mni (formerly AIG Police Accounts and Budget, Force Headquarters, Abuja)
– Kenechukwu Onwuemelie (formerly AIG Zone 15, Maiduguri)
– Umar Shehu Nadada, mni (formerly AIG Zone 14, Katsina)
These elevations come on the heels of the recent confirmation of DIG Fayoade Adegoke to the substantive rank of DIG, positioning him to join the Force Management Team.
The PSC noted that the promotions are essential to address vacancies arising from the retirement of eight DIGs who previously held key strategic roles.
In a statement, PSC Chairman, retired DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu, congratulated the promoted officers and charged them to justify the trust placed in them by upholding the highest standards of professionalism.
He emphasized the importance of prioritizing national security and fostering stronger collaboration with the Commission to advance ongoing reforms and development within the NPF.
The development is seen as part of broader efforts to refresh senior leadership in the force amid recent retirements, including that of prominent DIG Frank Mba and others, ensuring continuity and strengthened operational capacity.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the postings of 31 career and 34 non-career ambassadors to various countries and the United Nations.
The Senate confirmed the ambassadors-designate last December.
POSTINGS OF NON-CAREER AMBASSADORS / HIGH COMMISSIONERS
S/N NAME MISSION APPROVED
1. SENATOR GRACE BENT: LOME-TOGO
2. SEN. ITA ENANG: SOUTH AFRICA
3. IKPEAZU VICTOR: SPAIN
4. NKECHI LINDA UFOCHUKWU: TEL-AVIV, ISRAEL
5. MAHMUD YAKUBU: QATAR
6. PAUL OGA ADIKWU: THE VATICAN CITY HOLY SEE
7. VICE ADMIRAL IBOK-ETE EKWE IBAS: THE PHILIPPINES
8. MR. RENO OMOKRI: MEXICO CITY, MEXICO
9. HON. (ENGR.) ABASI BRAIMAH (FMHR): BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
10. MRS. ERELU ANGELA ADEBAYO: PORTUGAL
11. BARR. OLUMILUA OLUWAYIMIKA AYOTUNWA: TOKYO, JAPAN
12. RT. HON. UGWUANYI IFEANYI LAWRENCE: ATHENS, GREECE
13. BARR. CHIOMA PRISCILLA OHAKIM: WARSAW, POLAND
14. AMINU DALHATU: UNITED KINGDOM, UK
15. LT. GEN ABDULRAHMAN BELLO DAMBAZAU: BEIJING, CHINA
16. HON. TASIU MUSA MAIGARI: GAMBIA
17. OLUFEMI PEDRO: AUSTRALIA
18. BARR. MUHAMMED UBANDOMA ALIYU: ARGENTINA
19. LATEEF KAYODE ARE: USA
20. AMB. JOSEPH SOLA IJI: RUSSIA
21. SEN. JIMOH IBRAHIM: UN PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE
22. FEMI FANI KAYODE: GERMANY
23. PROF. ISAAK FOLORUNSO ADEWOLE: OTTAWA, CANADA
24. AJIMOBI FATIMA FLORENCE (F): AUSTRIA
25. MRS. LOLA AKANDE (F): SWEDEN
26. AYODELE OKE: FRANCE
27. YAKUBU N. GAMBO: SAUDI ARABIA
28. SENATOR PROF. NORA LADI DADUUT: SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA
29. BARR. ONUEZE CHUKWUJIKA JOE OKOCHA SAN: DUBLIN
30. DR. KULU HARUNA ABUBAKAR: TUNIS, TUNISIA
31. RT. HON. JERRY SAMUEL MANWE: PORT OF SPAIN.
T&T POSTINGS OF CAREER AMBASSADORS / HIGH COMMISSIONERS LIST
S/N NAME MISSION APPROVED
1. AMB. NWABIOLA EZENWA CHUKWUMEKA: COTE D’IV/OIRE
2. BESTO MAIMUNA IBRAHIM: NIAMEY-NIGER
3. MONICA OKWUCHUKWU ENEBECHI: SAO TOME, STP
4. AMB. MOHAMMED MAHMUD LELE: ALGIERS-ALGERIA
5. ENDONI SYNDOPH PAEBI: OUAGADOUGOU-BURKINA FASO
6. AHMED MOHAMMED MONGUNO: CAIRO EGYPT
7. AMB.JANE ADAMS (NEE OKON) MICHAEL (F): KINGSTON-JAMAICA
8. AMB. CLARK-OMERU ALEXANDRA (F): LUSAKA-ZAMBIA
9. CHIMA GEOGGREY LIOMA DAVID: BAMAKO-MALI
10. AMB. ODUMAH YVONNE EHINOSEN: MALABO –E/GUINEA
11. AMB WASA SEGUN IGE: BEIRUT, LEBANON
12. RUBEN ABIMBOLA SAMUEL (F): ROME, ITALY
13. AMB.ONAGA OGECHUKWU KINGSLEY: MAPUTO, MOZAMBIQUE
14. AMB.MAGAJI UMAR: KINSASHA, DR CONGO
15. AMB.MUHAMMAD SAIDU DAHIRU: NEW DELHI-INDIA
16. AMB. ABDUSSALAM HABU ZAYYAD: DAKAR-SENEGAL
17. AMB SHEHU ILU BARDE: ACCRA GHANA
18. AMB.AMINU NASIR: ETHIOPIA
19. ABUBAKAR MUSA MUSA: N’DJAMENA, CHAD
20. AMB. HAIDARA MOHAMMED IDRIS: THE HAGUE-NETHERLANDS
21. AMB.BAKO ADAMU UMAR: RABAT-MOROCCO
22. AMB. SULU GAMBARI OLATUNJI AHMED: MALAYSIA
23. AMB.ROMATA MOHAMMED OMOBOLANLE (F): TANZANIA
24. AMB. SHAGA JOHN SHAMAH: BOTSWANA
25. SALAU, HAMZA MOHAMMED: TEHRAN, IRAN
26. AMB.IBRAHIM DANLAMI: KENYA
27. IBRAHIM ADEOLA MOPELOLA (F): COTONOU-BENIN
28. AMB.AYENI ADEBAYO EMMANUEL: BRUSSELS, BELGIUM
29. AMB.AKANDE WAHAB ADEKOLA: BERNE-SWITZERLAND
30. AMB. AREWA (NEE ADEDOKUN) ESTHER (F): WINDHOEK-NAMIBIA
31. AMB.GERGADI JOSEPH JOHN: LIBREVILLE-GABON
32. AMB. LUTHER OGBOMODE AYO-KALATA (F): SIERRA LEONE
33. DANLADI YAKUBU NYAKU : KHARTOUM-SUDAN
34. BELLO DOGON-DAJI HALIRU: BANGKOK, THAILAND
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already received agrément from the United Kingdom for the High Commissioner-designate, Ambassador Aminu Dalhatu. Similarly, France has sent the agrément for Ambassador Ayo Oke.
The Ministry has also conveyed the nominations of the other 62 designated envoys to all the countries concerned, including a request for their agreements in line with standard diplomatic practice.
President Tinubu has directed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs should immediately commence the induction programme for the ambassadors-designate and High Commissioners.
News
Political Thugs Set Rivers ADC Office On Fire
Ubima is the country home of the former Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi.
Suspected political thugs have set ablaze the office of the African Democratic Party (ADC) at Ubima Community, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Ubima is the country home of the former Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi.
The political thugs also attacked the Minister’s Community with heavy firepower, shooting sporadically in the area.
Amaechi,a two times governor of Rivers state between 2007 to 2015 is one of the leaders of the ADC, the political party seeking to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.
Meanwhile, Amaechi is expected to visit Ubima , Friday, to officially register with the ADC at the ward level.
The thugs reportedly invaded the community, Thursday night, shooting heavily and setting the party Secretariat on fire.
Locals say the thugs may have caused the panic in the community to scare people from coming out to welcome the former governor of the state who is visiting the party office in his ward for official registration with the ADC.
They reportedly reappeared Friday morning mounting Road block on the Omuawa-Ubima toad stopping every bus with ADC banner from entering the community.
Meanwhile,intervention from security operatives mobilised to the area is said to have restored normalcy.
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