2026 Real Estate Checklist for Nigerians Abroad Investing in Lagos
- Zikan Realtors
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
In 2026, investing in Lagos from abroad has transitioned from a high-risk gamble to a structured, digital-first operation. With the full integration of the Lagos e-GIS portal and the Non-Resident Bank Verification Number (NRBVN), you no longer need to rely on "trusting a relative."
You need to trust a system. This 2026 checklist is your operational manual for navigating the current landscape, ensuring your capital is protected and your asset is bankable.
Phase 1: The Digital Identity & Finance Setup
Before you look at a single property, you must "legalize" your presence in the Nigerian financial ecosystem. 2026 regulations have made this mandatory for all property registrations.
[ ] Obtain your NRBVN: You can now capture biometrics remotely via authorized apps. This allows you to open a Naira Diaspora Account and a Domiciliary (USD/GBP/EUR) Account without flying to Nigeria.
[ ] Register for a Nigerian Tax Identification Number (TIN): As of January 2026, a TIN is required for all Land Use Charge registrations and Governor’s Consent applications. You can apply via the Joint Tax Board (JTB) portal.
[ ] Establish an FX Strategy: Decide if you will pay in a "USD-Pegged Naira" contract. In 2026, many developers offer a fixed exchange rate for the duration of a payment plan to protect you from sudden currency fluctuations.
Phase 2: The 2026 Due Diligence Protocol
In 2026, "physical inspection" is secondary to "Digital Verification." * [ ] Conduct an e-GIS Title Search: Use the Lagos State Land Online Portal to verify the title (C of O, Governor’s Consent, or Gazette). You will need the Title Number or Parcel ID.
* Warning: Ensure the search result shows no active "Caveats" or undischarged mortgages.
[ ] Authenticate the Survey Plan: Authenticate the coordinates online via the Office of the Surveyor-General (OSSG) Deposit Portal. This confirms the land is not under government acquisition or sitting on a planned highway (Right of Way).
[ ] Check the LASRERA Rating: If buying from a developer, check their Trust Star Rating on the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA) portal.
Tip: Only deal with "4-Star" or "5-Star" rated developers who have a proven track record of delivery in 2024–2025.
Phase 3: The 2026 Neighborhood Selection (Growth Corridors)
Lagos has shifted. In 2026, the best yields are found where infrastructure meets industry.
[ ] Ibeju-Lekki (Industrial Hub): Target "Industrial Dormitories"—small, high-efficiency apartments for the thousands of workers at the Port and Refinery.
[ ] Epe (The New Frontier): Ideal for "Land Banking." With the Epe International Airport project moving into its next phase, land within 15 minutes of the airport site is the 2026 goldmine.
[ ] Yaba/Mainland (The Tech Corridor): The "Knowledge Economy" is booming. Student hostels and co-living spaces here offer the highest rental yields (12–15%) in the city.
Phase 4: Closing the Deal & Perfection
[ ] Execute a Digital/Physical Contract of Sale: Ensure it includes a Milestone Payment Schedule if buying off-plan.
[ ] Secure a Notarized Power of Attorney (PoA): If you aren't physically present, you must notarize a PoA in your country of residence and have it legalized at the Nigerian Embassy. This allows your lawyer to sign the Deed of Assignment on your behalf.
[ ] Initiate Governor’s Consent Immediately: Do not wait. In 2026, the "Lagos Land Administration Portal" allows you to track your application in real-time. Perfection is what makes your asset "bankable."
Summary Table: 2026 Transaction Costs
Fee Category | Percentage of Value | When to Pay |
Legal Fees | 5% | At signing of Deed |
Agency Commission | 5% | Upon closing |
Stamp Duty | ~0.5% | During Perfection |
Governor's Consent | ~1.5% - 3% | Post-purchase registration |
🏢 Zikan Prop Solutions
🥇 Certified Real Estate Consultant | Multi Award-Winning Realtor
Helping you make the best real estate purchase & investment decisions.
📱 +234 703 000 3514
📲 IG: @zikanpropsolutions
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