Why the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is a Big Deal in Lagos Real Estate

In the ever-booming world of Lagos real estate, there’s one document that carries more weight than any receipt, agreement, or verbal promise — the Certificate of Occupancy, commonly referred to as C of O.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, understanding the importance of a C of O could be the difference between building generational wealth and losing millions overnight.

📜 What Exactly is a C of O?

A Certificate of Occupancy is a legal document issued by the Lagos State Government, confirming that a person has the legal right to occupy and use a parcel of land for a specified purpose — typically for 99 years.

It is the highest form of land ownership title available to individuals or corporate bodies in Lagos. With it, you’re not just squatting, leasing, or hoping — you have the law on your side.

⚖️ 1. It Confirms You’re the Legal Owner

Let’s be clear: owning land or property in Lagos without a valid title is risky. You might have a receipt, deed of assignment, or survey — but without a recognized title like a C of O, you do not have full legal ownership.

It’s like having the keys to a car but no registered documents — you may be using it, but you’re not the rightful owner in the eyes of the law.

The C of O officially certifies that your land is not under government acquisition or dispute, and that you’re legally permitted to live, build, or invest on it.

Land for sale in Lagos with a CofO Title

🛑 2. It Protects You From Government Seizure

In Lagos, countless properties have been demolished or seized due to invalid or incomplete documentation.
This is especially common in areas under government acquisition, where the land is earmarked for public projects, resettlement, or infrastructure.

If your land does not have a valid title like a C of O, you could wake up one morning to bulldozers on your property — with zero compensation.

Case in point: demolitions in Ikota, Lekki, and Abule Ado affected many who had no proper title.

Having a C of O helps ensure that your land or building is not on the government’s acquisition list.

💼 3. It Makes Your Property Bankable

A C of O doesn’t just protect your land — it can unlock financial opportunities.

If you ever need a loan or want to raise funds for business, banks and financial institutions require titled documents as collateral.
Without a C of O, your property will likely be rejected as security, no matter how valuable it is.

Similarly, serious investors or corporate buyers will never touch land without a proper title. So if you plan to sell at a high value later, a C of O is non-negotiable.

🏗️ 4. It Unlocks Full Development Rights

When you have a C of O, it clearly states the approved use of the land — whether residential, commercial, mixed-use, or industrial. This gives you a solid legal ground to obtain building permits, secure development approvals, and avoid penalties.

If you’re a developer, this can be the difference between getting funding — or being flagged by regulatory authorities.

💰 5. It Increases Property Value

Properties with a Certificate of Occupancy almost always command higher market value than untitled ones.
On average, the difference can range between 30% to 50% in value — just because the risk is lower.

In Lagos real estate, documentation is everything. It builds trust, proves ownership, and attracts premium buyers.

If you’re buying with the intention to resell or flip, a C of O will give you a stronger edge in the market.

🤔 What If the Property Doesn’t Have a C of O?

Not all land in Lagos has a C of O — but that doesn’t mean you can’t buy. The key is to understand what other valid titles exist and ensure you carry out proper due diligence.

Some acceptable alternatives include:

• Governor’s Consent
• Gazetted Excision
• Registered Deed of Assignment

But even then, it’s critical to verify the title through the Lagos State Land Registry and get advice from a trusted real estate lawyer or property consultant.

✅ Final Thoughts

Buying property in Lagos is a big investment. But without a C of O, it can also be a big mistake.

The C of O gives you:

• Security
• Ownership legitimacy
• Access to funding
• Higher resale value

Before you commit to buying land or a house, always ask:

“What title does this property have?”

And if the answer is C of O, you’re already several steps ahead of the game.