If you want to buy land in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos or other high-demand locations, you must have the Governor’s Consent. It is the legal stamp that confirms your ownership. Many property buyers believe that obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is sufficient. It’s not, Governor’s Consent is necessary for any resale or transfer of land that already has a title. In this post, we’ll discuss what Governor’s Consent is, why it’s important, the risks of ignoring it, and how to obtain it legally.
What is the Governor's Consent?
Governor’s Consent is the official approval granted by the state governor for any land transaction involving a previously titled property. It is required under the Land Use Act of 1978, which vests all land in the state in the Governor’s trust.
If you’re buying land that already has a C of O or Deed of Assignment, you must apply for Governor’s Consent to make your ownership legally valid.
Why Do You Need Governor’s Consent?
Here are four key reasons why Governor’s Consent is non-negotiable:
1. It Confirms You’re the Legal Owner
Without Governor’s Consent, your name is not legally recognized as the new property owner in government records. That makes it risky to invest millions in such a transaction.
2. It Protects Against Land Fraud
Nigeria’s real estate sector is rife with fraudulent land sales. Governor’s Consent provides a layer of government verification, confirming the land’s authenticity and the seller’s right to sell.
3. You Can Use the Property as Collateral
Planning to use the land for a business loan or mortgage? No financial institution will accept it as collateral without a registered Governor’s Consent.
4. It Makes Resale Easy
When you’re ready to sell the property later, having Governor’s Consent speeds up the process and increases buyer confidence.
What Happens If You Don’t Get It?
- Your transaction is legally invalid under Nigerian land law.
- You risk government repossession or double sale disputes.
- The property cannot be registered in your name.
- You won’t be able to develop, insure, or finance it properly.
How Do You Obtain Governor’s Consent?
To get Governor’s Consent, you must:
- Prepare a Deed of Assignment between the current owner and the buyer.
- Submit a survey plan, tax clearance certificate, and valid means of identification.
- Apply at the State Lands Bureau (e.g., Alausa for Lagos State).
- Pay statutory fees: Consent Fee (1.5%), Capital Gains Tax (0.5%), Stamp Duty (0.5%), and Registration Fee (0.5%).
Processing time: 30 to 90 working days, depending on the state.
If you’re buying property in Nigeria, especially in Lagos or Abuja, Governor’s Consent is one of the most important documents you must secure. It protects your investment, proves your ownership, and allows you to use the land freely. At urban Living, we can take care of it.