Documents Needed to Get a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) in Nigeria

When it comes to land ownership in Nigeria, the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is one of the most important documents you can have.

It is the official government document that proves you are the legal occupant of a piece of land or property for a specified period, usually 99 years. Without a C of O, your ownership claim may be questioned in the future.

But what exactly do you need to successfully apply for and obtain a C of O in Nigeria? Let’s break it down.

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What is a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)?

A Certificate of Occupancy is an official document issued by the state government through the Ministry of Lands, granting a person or corporate body the legal right to occupy and use a piece of land.

It is governed by the Land Use Act of 1978, which vests all land in a state under the authority of the Governor.

Key Documents Required for Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) in Nigeria

To apply for a C of O, you will need to provide the following documents to the state’s Ministry of Lands and Urban Development:

1. Duly Completed Application Form

You must fill out the official C of O application form, which can be obtained from the Lands Bureau or Ministry of Lands.

2. Survey Plan

A registered survey plan of the land is mandatory. It shows the exact location, size, and boundaries of the property.

3. Application Letter

An application letter formally requesting the issuance of a C of O is required and must be addressed to the Director of Lands.

4. Passport Photographs

Recent passport photographs of the applicant (individual or company representatives) must be attached.

5. Site Location Sketch / Plot Location Sketch

This is a simple drawing showing the location of the land in relation to nearby landmarks.

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6. Means of Identification

Applicants must provide a valid means of identification, such as a National ID, International Passport, Driver’s License, or Voter’s Card.

7. Tax Clearance Certificate

For individuals, a personal income tax clearance certificate is required. For companies, evidence of tax payment, such as Company Tax Clearance, is mandatory.

MUST READ: List of documents needed to get a Governor’s Consent in Nigeria

8. Receipt of Land Payment / Proof of Land Allocation

If the land was allocated by the government, evidence of payment for the land must be attached. If it is family or community land, a Deed of Assignment or Purchase Receipt may also be required.

9. Letter of Confirmation from Land Use and Allocation Committee (LUAC) (For state-allocated lands)

This letter confirms the allocation and authenticity of the land.

Why You Should Get a Certificate of Occupancy

• 1. Legal Ownership – Protects you from land disputes and multiple claims.
• 2. Land Security – Confirms the government’s recognition of your right to occupy and use the land.
• 3. Property Value – Properties with a C of O are more valuable and easier to resell.
• 4. Access to Loans – Banks accept land with a C of O as collateral for financing.
• 5. Peace of Mind – Eliminates the fear of losing your investment to government acquisition.

Conclusion:

Obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is one of the best steps you can take to secure your real estate investment in Nigeria. Make sure you prepare all required documents — from the Survey Plan, Application Form, Tax Clearance, Passport Photographs, and Proof of Land Payment — before applying to avoid delays.

At Sureland Realtors, we help investors and property owners process their documentation, including C of O applications, Governor’s Consent, and Deed of Assignment registrations. With us, your land investment is in safe hands.