A Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is an important property document in Nigeria, but simply being shown a C of O does not mean you should immediately proceed with a purchase.
C of O verification in Nigeria helps confirm the details of the document and investigate whether the property and title information correspond with the relevant official records.
Why Verify a C of O?
Before buying land or property, verification can help identify issues such as:
- Incorrect property details
- Questionable documents
- Conflicting ownership claims
- Existing interests or restrictions
- Government acquisition issues
- Inconsistencies in the property’s survey information
This is particularly important when purchasing expensive property or land.
What Is Checked?
Depending on the state and property, verification may involve checking information such as:
- C of O number
- Property owner’s name
- Plot number
- Block number
- Location
- Survey details
- Date of issue
- Property description
- Relevant land records
The information on the C of O should correspond with the property and other supporting documents.
C of O Verification in Lagos
For a property in Lagos, the verification process should be handled through the appropriate Lagos State land administration channels.
Whether the property is in Lekki, Ikeja, Ajah, Ikorodu or another area, do not rely solely on a seller or estate agent’s claim that the property has a genuine C of O.
For a purchase, it is also advisable to have a qualified Nigerian property lawyer review the title and transaction before committing substantial funds.
Can You Verify a C of O From Abroad?
Yes, the process can be coordinated while you are outside Nigeria.
For example, if you live in the UK and are considering purchasing land in Lagos, you can provide the available C of O and property documents while the Nigerian-side verification and follow-up are coordinated locally.
This can save you from travelling to Nigeria simply to begin the process.
How Travo.ng Can Help
Travo.ng can coordinate relevant C of O verification and property-document logistics where the requested service is available.
This may include:
- Collecting property documents
- Verification coordination
- Local follow-up
- Appointment coordination
- Document collection
- Courier delivery
- Updates for customers abroad
Where a legal opinion is required, a qualified property lawyer should review the title and advise you.
Don’t Rely on the C of O Alone
A C of O is only one part of a property transaction.
Before purchasing, you should also consider the property’s survey, ownership history, relevant consents and whether there are restrictions or competing interests affecting it.
The safest approach is:
Obtain the documents → verify the C of O → investigate the property → obtain professional legal advice → then proceed with the purchase.
