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When Temi got his first job in the UK, buying land back home in Lagos was one of the first things on his mind. Like many Nigerians in the diaspora, he wanted to invest in something real. Something that said, “This is mine.” But the fear of being scammed, misled, or buying land with shaky documents held him back. He’d heard the horror stories — land sold to five different people, family members taking the money and building nothing, agents that disappeared once payments were made. The anxiety was real.
Yet, a few years later, Temi finally bought a plot of land in the outskirts of Ibeju-Lekki. He did it while still living abroad. No regrets. Just careful steps and the right information.
If you’re looking to buy land in Lagos while living abroad, Temi’s experience is proof that it’s possible — and safe — if you know what you’re doing. This guide walks you through the realistic steps without the hype.
Understand the Landscape First
Lagos is one of the most dynamic real estate markets in Nigeria — busy, ever-growing, and full of both opportunity and risk. Buying land here can be incredibly rewarding, but it also demands caution. The land system in Lagos is complex. There are government-acquired lands, committed lands, family lands, and excised lands.
Each comes with its own story and set of documents.
Before you even send money to anyone, take time to understand the types of land available in Lagos. Speak to people who have bought land before. Read stories. Ask questions.
Your first investment is not your money — it’s your knowledge.
Don’t Rely on Family Alone
It’s tempting to say, “My uncle is there, he’ll handle it.” Or “My cousin knows someone.” But this can be risky. Family may mean well, but they are not always informed or equipped to handle real estate matters. Some mean well but fall for the wrong deals. Others take advantage of trust. The truth is, buying land should be treated as a professional transaction, not a family favour.
Instead of relying solely on family, consider hiring a registered real estate company or property consultant with a verifiable track record. There are firms that specialize in helping Nigerians in the diaspora buy land in Lagos while living abroad. They understand the nuances of remote transactions and how to ensure your interests are protected even from thousands of miles away.
Get the Right Team
To buy land safely in Lagos while abroad, you need more than just a seller. You need a team — a professional team.
Start with a credible real estate company. Look for one that offers verified properties with clear documentation. Don’t just go with the flashiest ads on Instagram. Check their CAC registration, ask for past client referrals, and speak to people who’ve worked with them before.
Next, hire a property lawyer. Not just any lawyer, but one who understands land law in Lagos. The lawyer should help you verify the documents of the land, run checks at the Land Registry in Alausa, and draft your legal papers.
If you’re dealing with survey plans, excision status, or land under government acquisition, your lawyer becomes even more crucial. The lawyer acts on your behalf, like your eyes and ears on ground.
Don’t Skip Land Verification
Land verification is where most people either succeed or fail in real estate. Every land has a history. Some lands are under dispute. Some have already been sold multiple times. Some are still owned by the Lagos State Government. If you skip verification, you could end up buying problems instead of property.
What should be verified?
The ownership status of the land
Whether the land is under government acquisition or has been excised
If there’s a Certificate of Occupancy, Gazette, or Governor’s Consent
That the land is not under litigation
A good lawyer or real estate company will help you carry out this verification at the appropriate agencies.
See the Land — Even If You’re Abroad
Now, this might sound tricky, but seeing the land doesn’t always mean showing up physically. Thanks to technology, you can request a video inspection. Many reputable companies now offer live video calls on-site, drone footage, and digital walk-throughs. You can also send someone you trust — preferably someone outside of family — to visit the land with the company.
Ask for pictures. Ask for coordinates. Use Google Earth to locate the area. Make sure the land truly exists and isn’t just “paper land.”
Payments and Documentation
Once you’re satisfied with the verification and location, it’s time to talk about money. If you’re abroad, payment should be made through formal channels. Never send cash to a third-party account. Use your bank. Insist on receipts for every transaction. Every payment — whether for the land, survey, legal fees, or documentation — should be traceable.
Documentation should include:
A receipt of payment
A contract of sale or deed of assignment
A survey plan
Any government documentation, if applicable
Your lawyer should guide you through these. Do not skip any stage. These documents are what protect your ownership in the long run.
Register Your Land
Once the land is yours, the next step is to register it with the Lagos State Government. This process includes obtaining a Governor’s Consent if the land already has a C of O or registering your Deed of Assignment if it doesn’t. This part can take time — Lagos is not the fastest in processing land titles — but it’s worth it.
Again, your lawyer can handle this process while you stay abroad.
Build Trust, But Stay Involved
Even when you’ve found a good team, don’t disappear. Follow up. Ask for updates. Request photos. Schedule video calls. Be part of the journey. The more involved you are, the fewer the surprises.
Some buyers buy land and wait years before doing anything with it, only to find someone else has built on it. You don’t want that. Once you buy, fence the land if possible. Or put a small signpost with your name on it. That way, people know the land is owned and not abandoned.
What About Instalment Plans?
If you’re not ready to pay all at once, there are flexible payment options. Some verified estate developers offer installment plans spread over months or even years. These are often more expensive than outright payment but can ease the pressure. Just make sure you understand the terms and get everything in writing.
Final Thoughts
To buy land in Lagos while living abroad is no longer a fantasy. With the right team, clear documentation, and digital tools, it can be done smoothly and confidently. But it requires patience, due diligence, and a commitment to doing things the right way.
Temi now plans to build a small short-let apartment on his land — still from abroad. He says the process wasn’t as fast as he expected, but it was worth every step. Like Temi, you too can secure your portion in Lagos — not by rushing or guessing, but by making informed, steady moves.
And remember, land is not just property. It’s legacy. It’s that piece of home that waits for you, no matter where in the world you are.