Governor's Consent vs. C of O in Lagos: Crucial Differences Before You Pay

When buying property in Lagos, whether in Lekki, Ikoyi, or Epe, understanding title documents is the single most important factor determining whether your investment is secure. ### What is a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)? A Certificate of Occupancy is an official land document issued by the State Government which leases government land to an individual or corporation for a term of 99 years. Only ONE C of O is ever issued on a virgin plot of land. ### What is Governor's Consent? Once the first owner (who holds the C of O or Gazette allocation) decides to sell or transfer that land to a new buyer, the Land Use Act of 1978 requires the consent of the State Governor to make the transfer legally recognized. That legal validation is called **Governor's Consent**. ### Key Takeaway for Buyers Never pay for land based solely on a deed without conducting a formal search at the Lagos State Lands Bureau (Alausa). At InsideOgbe, all our listed properties undergo thorough registry searches before receiving our verified badge.