Buying land in Nigeria can be one of the smartest financial moves you’ll ever make—if done right.

But let’s be honest, it’s also one of the trickiest.

Land deals here can usually feel like auditioning for a role in a Nollywood thriller.

If you’ve never heard stories of omo onile drama, counterfeit land documents, or entire neighborhoods that suddenly become government property overnight, then congratulations—you’ve been living under a rock!

The truth is, while land investment is a pathway to building wealth, it’s also a minefield riddled with potential pitfalls.

Whether you’re buying for personal use or future development, recognizing the red flags early can save you a lifetime of regret, stress, and financial loss.

In this guide, we’ll look at the 10 red flags to watch out for when buying land in Nigeria.

By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be equipped with the right wisdom to navigate the murky waters of Nigerian land transactions.

Yes, you will become a Nigeria real estate pro (overnight land expert) – not a joke!

1. The “Rush, Rush” Sales Pitch

Have you ever heard this line? “Madam, better pay now! Three other buyers are interested o!”

If you ever encounter such statement, you’ve just met a textbook red flag.

Rushed sales pitches are a tactic to pressure you into making hasty decisions without proper due diligence.

A wise buyer knows that land doesn’t get up and walk away—there’s always time to investigate.

So, take a deep breath, step back, and do your research.

A genuine seller will allow you time to verify ownership and documents.

2. Suspiciously Cheap Prices

If the land price sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Sure, everyone loves a good bargain, but when someone offers you “one-acre beachfront property in Lekki for ₦2 million,” you should be asking questions.

A friend once fell for this trap, only to later discover that the land was part of a swamp.

Clearing and sand-filling the land would have cost him three times the amount he paid!

To escape this, compare prices of similar properties in the area.

Extremely cheap land may come with hidden costs or complications.

3. No Valid Title Documents

One of the biggest scams in Nigerian land transactions is the sale of land without proper documentation.

If the seller starts mumbling excuses like, “The document dey with my uncle, but you fit pay first,” please carry your bag and run.

Common land titles in Nigeria include Certificates of Occupancy (C of O), Deeds of Assignment, and Governor’s Consent.

Without these, you have no legal claim to the land.

Hire a lawyer to verify the title documents and ensure they are genuine and up to date.

4. Lack of a Survey Plan

A survey plan is like the “address” of the land. It shows the exact location, size, and boundaries of the property.

If a seller cannot provide one, that’s a major red flag.

In some cases, the land may fall under government acquisition, or worse, it may not even exist on any official map.

Engage a licensed surveyor to confirm the land’s status and ensure it’s free from encumbrances.

5. Unlicensed and Unregistered Agents

Some of the most creative scammers in Nigeria work as “agents.” They’ll show you land they don’t own, collect payment, and disappear faster than your mobile data during a Zoom call.

A family friend once lost ₦1.5 million to an “agent” who promised him land in Ogun State.

It turned out the agent had sold the same plot to five other people.

Always do your proper research, ask questions and deal with registered real estate companies or trusted professionals.

Verify their credentials before committing your hard earned money.

6. Disputes Among Family Members

In Nigeria, family-owned land can be a drama-filled soap opera.

One brother claims ownership, while another insists the land belongs to their late grandfather’s cousin’s son.

When you must have paid, you’re caught in the middle of a legal war.

A friend of mine once bought a land at Epe, only to have the seller’s siblings show up a month later with machetes, claiming the land was never for sale.

Avoid lands with unresolved family disputes.

Always confirm that all stakeholders agree to the sale and sign off on it.

7. Lack of Accessibility

You’ve found “cheap” land, but did you check if there’s an accessible road?

Some buyers get so excited about the price that they forget to consider how they’ll get to the land.

Imagine paying millions for land only to realize you need a canoe to access it during the rainy season.

When buying, always visit the land yourself.

Check the access roads and proximity to basic infrastructure like water, electricity, and schools.

8. No Physical Inspection

One golden rule: never buy land you haven’t seen.

Pictures can be deceiving, and sweet-talking sellers are often skilled at glossing over the less desirable aspects of a property.

My sister once bought “dry land” in Lagos, only to find out it was a marshy flood zone. The pictures she had been shown were taken during the dry season.

Make sure to inspect the land physically, preferably with a surveyor or real estate expert.

9. Multiple Ownership Claims

If you hear phrases like, “Don’t worry, we’ve already settled with the other people,” consider that a giant red flag.

Lands with multiple claims of ownership often end up in court battles, which can take years to resolve.

Avoid any land with a history of ownership disputes.

Insist on proper documentation and confirm ownership through the land registry.

10. Ignoring Professional Advice

Some buyers think they can “save money” by skipping lawyers, surveyors, and real estate consultants.

In reality, this often leads to costly mistakes.

A lawyer once told me about a client who bought land without professional advice, only to find out later that it was government-acquired property slated for road expansion.

When intending to buy land in Nigeria, consider a budget for professional fees.

The money you spend on legal and technical advice could save you from losing millions later.

Protect Your Investment

Buying land in Nigeria can be a life-changing investment, but only if done correctly.

When you avoid these red flags and stay vigilant, you can save yourself from heartbreak, financial loss, and endless drama.

Remember:

Take your time; don’t rush into deals.

Verify all documents and ownership claims.

Always involve professionals in your transaction.

Here is a quote from Benjamin Franklin-

“The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.” – Benjamin Franklin

Now that you’re armed with these tips, it’s time to take action.

If you’ve been dreaming of owning land, don’t let fear hold you back.

With the right knowledge and preparation, your investment can pave the way for a brighter future.

Have you had any land-buying experiences in Nigeria—good, bad, or downright hilarious?

Share your stories in the comments below.

And if you found this post helpful, share it with someone who might need it.

Let’s help each other make smarter real estate decisions!

Read also: 10 Reasons Why You Should Consider Investing In Real Estate Now

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