Land Inheritance in Nigeria and How To Secure Your Ownership
Land Inheritance in Nigeria and How to Secure Your Ownership
By Ola Charles Obagade
Inheriting land in Nigeria is more than a family gesture — it’s a potential gateway to long-term wealth. But without proper guidance, it can quickly become a source of legal complications and missed opportunities.
Whether you’ve just inherited farmland, a residential plot, or ancestral property, here’s a simplified but expert-backed breakdown of what you need to know.
1. Secure Legal Ownership & Documentation
Before doing anything, establish your legal right to the land. This typically involves one of the following:
– A Probated Will
– Letter of Administration (if no will exists)
– Legal Heir Certificate
Once confirmed, proceed to mutate the property records to your name through the local land registry. Without this, you can’t legally build, sell, or lease the land.
2. Verify Title & Check for Encumbrances
Don’t assume the land is free from issues. Run a comprehensive title search to confirm:
– Valid title (C of O, Deed of Assignment, or Gazette)
– Land is not under government acquisition
– No pending disputes or multiple claims
– No existing debts, liens, or court orders on the property
Professional verification is a must before making any financial move.
3. Understand Land Use & Zoning Restrictions
Not all land can be used for the same purposes. Know the zoning category:
– Agricultural land cannot be developed for residential/commercial use without official reclassification.
– Ensure you’re compliant with local and state planning laws before development.
Working with a certified town planner or real estate consultant will save you future headaches.
4. Handling Multiple Heirs & Family Disputes
Many inherited properties come with shared ownership. If you’re inheriting with siblings or relatives:
– Discuss and agree on sale, lease, or division
– Get written agreements signed and documented
– If conflict arises, opt for *mediation or court-backed resolution
Don’t let land disputes destroy family ties or delay wealth creation.
5. Safeguard the Future & Maximize Value
Once ownership is secure:
– Lease or develop the land for passive income
– Use as collateral for investment or business capital
– Protect it through documentation and estate planning
Also, draft your own updated will to avoid repeating the same complications for the next generation.
Expert Advice for Diaspora Nigerians
If you’re based in the UK, US, Canada, or elsewhere, inherited land in Nigeria can feel intimidating. But with the right local expertise, you can:
– Conduct land verifications remotely
– Handle documentation securely
– Avoid being scammed or misinformed
RGH Homes Marketing Hub offers full-scale support—from title checks and mutation to resale, development, and dispute resolution.
