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Understanding Property Titles and Documents in Nigeria by Dennis Isong

Being a property owner in Nigeria is a big accomplishment and a wise investment.
But managing the complexity of property ownership necessitates a thorough comprehension of papers and property titles. These records are vital for preserving property rights since they act as official proof of ownership.
This article explores the several kinds of property titles and documents that are available in Nigeria, their significance, and the ways in which they support safe real estate transactions.
1. Certificate of Occupancy (C of O):
A Certificate of Occupancy is perhaps the most crucial document when it comes to land ownership in Nigeria.
It is issued by the state government and serves as proof of ownership and the right to use the land for a specific purpose.
The process of obtaining a C of O involves the applicant submitting an application to the state government, which then conducts due diligence to verify the legitimacy of the claim to the land. Once issued, the C of O grants the holder exclusive rights to use and develop the land.
2. Deed of Assignment:
A Deed of Assignment is a legal document that transfers ownership of property from one party to another.
It typically outlines the details of the transfer, including the names of the parties involved, a description of the property, and any conditions or considerations attached to the transfer. This document is crucial for formalizing the sale or transfer of property rights and should be duly executed and registered with the appropriate government authority to ensure its validity.
3. Deed of Conveyance:
Similar to a Deed of Assignment, a Deed of Conveyance is used to transfer ownership of property. However, unlike the Deed of Assignment, which is commonly used for the transfer of leasehold interests, the Deed of Conveyance is used for the transfer of freehold interests.
It is typically executed between the seller (grantor) and the buyer (grantee) and includes details such as the purchase price, description of the property, and any covenants or warranties.
4. Survey Plan:
A Survey Plan is a document that shows the accurate boundaries and measurements of a piece of land. It is prepared by a licensed surveyor and is essential for verifying the exact location and dimensions of a property.
A Survey Plan is often required during the process of obtaining a C of O or when transferring property ownership to ensure that there are no boundary disputes or encroachments.
5. Power of Attorney:
A Power of Attorney is a legal document that grants someone else the authority to act on behalf of the property owner. It is commonly used in situations where the property owner is unable to handle their affairs due to illness, absence, or other reasons.
A Power of Attorney can be limited or general in scope, depending on the specific powers granted to the attorney-in-fact.
The Significance of Property Titles: Safeguarding Your InvestmentLegal Ownership:
Property titles serve as incontrovertible evidence of legal ownership.
They establish the rightful owner of the property and delineate the boundaries of their ownership rights. Without a valid title, one cannot claim ownership of a property, leaving them vulnerable to disputes and challenges regarding ownership.
Protection of Property Rights:
Property titles provide protection against encroachments and unauthorized claims to the property.
They offer a legal shield against potential disputes, ensuring that the owner’s rights are recognized and respected by others.
With a clear title, property owners can confidently assert their ownership rights and defend against any attempts to infringe upon them.
Without a valid title, one cannot claim ownership of a property, leaving them vulnerable to disputes and challenges regarding ownership.
Facilitation of Transactions:
Clear and valid property titles facilitate smooth and efficient real estate transactions. When buying or selling property, a clean title provides assurance to both parties that the transaction is legitimate and free from any encumbrances or defects. It instills confidence in buyers and lenders, making it easier to secure financing and close the deal.
Legal Certainty:
Property titles provide legal certainty by establishing a chain of ownership that can be traced back through time. They document the history of the property, including previous transfers of ownership, mortgages, liens, and other encumbrances.
This historical record ensures transparency and clarity regarding the property’s status, enabling informed decision-making by prospective buyers and lenders.Access to Legal Remedies:In the event of a dispute or legal challenge regarding property ownership, a valid title provides the basis for seeking legal remedies and resolution.
Property owners with clear titles can avail themselves of legal avenues to defend their rights and rectify any discrepancies or irregularities affecting their ownership.
This access to legal recourse is essential for protecting investments and preserving property rights.Peace of Mind: Perhaps most importantly, property titles offer peace of mind to owners, knowing that their investment is secure and their ownership rights are legally recognized.
With a clear title in hand, property owners can confidently enjoy the benefits of homeownership, such as occupancy, development, and transferability, without fear of adverse claims or challenges.
The Implications of Not Acquiring Property Titles in Nigeria: Risks and Consequences
● Lack of Legal Ownership:
One of the most significant implications of not acquiring property titles is the lack of legal ownership. Without proper documentation, individuals cannot assert their ownership rights over the property, leaving them vulnerable to claims by other parties. This lack of legal ownership can lead to disputes, litigation, and the loss of investment in the property.
● Insecurity of Tenure:
Property titles provide security of tenure, guaranteeing the owner’s right to occupy and use the property without fear of eviction or interference. Without proper titles, individuals face uncertainty regarding their tenure, making them susceptible to arbitrary eviction or displacement by third parties claiming ownership rights. This insecurity of tenure can disrupt lives, businesses, and communities, leading to social and economic instability.
● Difficulty in Transacting:
Acquiring property titles is essential for facilitating real estate transactions, such as buying, selling, or leasing property. Without clear titles, individuals encounter difficulties in transacting, as potential buyers or lenders may be reluctant to engage in deals involving properties with uncertain ownership status. This can impede economic development and hinder investment in the real estate sector.
● Limited Access to Credit:
Property titles serve as collateral for obtaining loans and credit from financial institutions. Without proper titles, individuals have limited access to credit, as lenders are unwilling to accept properties with unclear ownership as collateral. This lack of access to credit hampers economic growth and development, as it constrains individuals’ ability to invest in property development and other productive ventures.
● Vulnerability to Fraud and Exploitation:
In the absence of property titles, individuals are vulnerable to fraud and exploitation by unscrupulous actors seeking to exploit their lack of legal protection. Fraudulent schemes such as land grabbing, forgery of documents, and illegal sales thrive in environments where property titles are not properly established. This exposes unsuspecting individuals to financial loss and legal entanglements.
● Legal and Regulatory Risks:
Failure to acquire property titles exposes individuals to legal and regulatory risks, as they may be in violation of laws and regulations governing property ownership and transactions. Government authorities may take enforcement actions against individuals occupying or developing property without proper titles, leading to fines, penalties, or even demolition of structures.
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Kogi’s Ododo Tasks Officials on Grassroots Engagement, Clears N98.8bn Debt
“Governor Ododo is driving a government that listens, learns, and leads from the grassroots. His directive on Made-in-Kogi fabrics is a strategic move to grow our economy and export our identity,” Fanwo said.

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo has charged government officials to remain close to the grassroots and ensure constant engagement with the people, noting that such connection is key to responsive governance.
Also in a separate briefing, the Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Mukadam Asiwaju Asiru Idris, announced that within just 15 months, the Ododo administration has fully liquidated N98.8 billion in debts inherited from previous administrations.
“We are in government to serve the people, and that means staying connected to their needs and aspirations,” said Ododo during the Kogi State Executive Council meeting held today at the EXCO Hall, Government House, Lokoja.
LOCAL PATRONAGE
As part of efforts to boost the local economy, the Governor also directed all government officials to wear Made-in-Kogi fabrics as a show of support for indigenous industries.
He encouraged the citizens to take pride in local products and lead a cultural and economic renaissance from within.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, said the administration is committed to making governance more visible and impactful.
“Governor Ododo is driving a government that listens, learns, and leads from the grassroots. His directive on Made-in-Kogi fabrics is a strategic move to grow our economy and export our identity,” Fanwo said.
On infrastructure, Fanwo disclosed that the perimeter fencing at the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara is 90 percent completed, while both male and female hostels have been completed and are already housing students.
Similar projects at the Kogi State University, Kabba, are progressing satisfactorily.
As part of efforts to boost the local economy, the Governor also directed all government officials to wear Made-in-Kogi fabrics as a show of support for indigenous industries
To improve public safety, the Council also approved a bill to restrict the movement of heavy trucks during peak hours.
Another bill was approved for the establishment of the Kogi State Agency for Climate Change as part of a forward-thinking response to global environmental challenges.
STATE‘s DEBT BREAKDOWN
Regarding the paid state debt, he said:
“The breakdown includes: • N8 billion in bonds from the Idris Wada administration. • N50.8 billion salary bailout from the last administration. • N10 billion ECA-backed infrastructure loan. • N15 billion infrastructure loans from Zenith Bank and another N15 billion from UBA Plc.”
“This is a landmark achievement. His Excellency Governor Ododo has demonstrated fiscal discipline and commitment to economic recovery.
Within 15 months, we have cleared N98.8 billion in inherited debt,” Idris said.
He added that Fitch Ratings has upgraded Kogi State’s credit rating from ‘B-’ to ‘B’, with a stable outlook, citing prudent financial management.
As of September 30, 2024, the state’s debt profile stands at N40.5 billion, placing it on a strong path to debt sustainability.
News
FG Declares June 6, 9 Holidays To Mark Eid-Ul-Adha
This was announced by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement issued on behalf of the Federal Government on Monday.

The Federal Government has declared Friday, June 6, and Monday, June 9, 2025, as public holidays to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Adha celebration.
This was announced by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement issued on behalf of the Federal Government on Monday.
The minister congratulated all Muslims in Nigeria and the Diaspora on the occasion, urging the Ummah to continue to embody the spirit of sacrifice, obedience, and faith as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (Peace be upon Him).
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I use my popularity to elevate PDP in Rivers, what did you do in Lagos?– Wike criticises Bode George

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has reacted over the recent comments by Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwart, Bode George, asserting that his own efforts brought prominence and electoral success to the party, rather than the other way around.
Speaking during his monthly media briefing in Abuja on Monday, Wike responded to George’s claim that the PDP had made him a nationally recognized figure.
The former Rivers State governor acknowledged the role the party played in his rise, but maintained that it was his own work and influence that led to tangible victories for the PDP particularly where others, including George, had failed.
“It’s true the party gave me a platform,” Wike said.“But platforms don’t win elections people do. Ask yourself, who has PDP made relevant in Lagos since 1999?”
Wike criticized George for allegedly contributing little to the party’s electoral strength in Lagos, pointing to his own record of building the PDP into a formidable force in Rivers State and beyond.
He suggested that George, given his age and current position, might be better off stepping back from political commentary.
“If he has no role anymore, perhaps it’s time he stayed home and read newspapers,” Wike remarked, in a pointed rebuke.
The minister also addressed criticism surrounding the temporary sealing of the PDP’s national headquarters over unpaid ground rent.
He clarified that he is not the property’s owner and cannot be held accountable for the liabilities, emphasizing that even resolving the issue had required intervention from the highest levels.
“There were claims that the sky would fall—yet the matter couldn’t be resolved without the President’s involvement,” he said.
In a final jab, Wike reflected on past struggles to strengthen the PDP during the Goodluck Jonathan administration, suggesting that despite their efforts, support in Lagos remained elusive.
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