Land Investment in Nigeria: The Complete Beginner’s Guide for Diaspora Nigerian
- Zikan Realtors
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
For many Nigerians abroad, investing in land back home is more than a financial decision — it’s a way to stay connected to your roots, build generational wealth, and secure a legacy for your family.
But the fear of scams, fake documents, land grabbing, and dishonest agents often stops people before they even begin.
This beginner-friendly guide breaks everything down simply, giving you the confidence to invest safely from anywhere in the UK, US, Canada, or Europe.
Why Land Investment Is the Smartest Entry Point for Diaspora Investors
Land is one of the safest and most profitable investments in Nigeria because:
It always appreciates — especially in emerging areas.
Low maintenance — no tenants, no repairs, no stress.
Flexible exit options — sell later, develop, or pass down to children.
Lower entry cost than buying a completed house.
Perfect for remote investors who can’t monitor construction daily.
In high-growth zones, land can appreciate 50%–300% within 3–5 years.
Types of Land Titles You Must Understand (Or Risk Being Scammed)
Before you send a single dollar or pound, understand these land titles:
C of O (Certificate of Occupancy)
Government-recognised ownership. Strongest proof of title.
Governor’s Consent
Needed when land with C of O is being resold. No Consent = No legal transfer.
Registered Survey
Confirms the land exists on government maps and is not under acquisition.
Deed of Assignment
Legal document transferring ownership from seller to buyer.
Excision
Land released by government back to the community. Safe when documented.
Gazette
Published record that proves the excision is official.
Never buy land without understanding the title attached to it.
The Safest Way to Buy Land from Abroad (Step-by-Step Process)
Step 1: Work with a Verified Real Estate Consultant
A true consultant provides:
Verified listings
Title checks
Video inspections
Lawyer coordination
Transparent documentation
Not “my brother’s friend who sells land.”
Step 2: Get a Lawyer to Verify the Title
Your lawyer must:
Conduct a search at the Ministry of Lands
Confirm the land is not under government acquisition
Confirm the seller/developer owns it
Review the contracts and deed
Step 3: Request a Virtual Inspection
A professional consultant provides:
Live video walkthrough
Drone footage
Surrounding area analysis
Coordinates to verify on Google Earth
Step 4: Make Payments Through Verified Channels
No cash. No personal accounts.Use:
Company accounts
Escrow
Bank transfers
Payment receipts with transaction IDs
Step 5: Get All Documents in Your Name
You must receive:
Contract of sale
Receipt of payment
Survey
Deed of Assignment
Allocation letter
Then apply for Governor’s Consent to protect your ownership forever.
Red Flags Diaspora Nigerians Must Avoid
❌ Land with no survey
❌ “Promo price ends today” pressure
❌ Personal account payments
❌ No physical office
❌ Agents unwilling to show documents
❌ Land still under family dispute.
❌ Developers promising unrealistic ROI
❌ No online presence or bad reviews
❌ “We’ll send your documents later”
If it feels rushed or hidden, walk away.
Where Diaspora Nigerians Are Currently Buying Land
High-appreciation zones include:
LAGOS
Ibeju-Lekki
Epe
Alaro City
Lekki Free Trade Zone
Agbowa
Sangotedo
ABUJA
Lugbe
Kyami
Jabi
Kuje
Airport Road corridor
PORT HARCOURT
Igwuruta
Eneka
Eleme
Oyigbo
OWERRI, AWKA, UYO, ASABA are rising stars too.
These areas are driven by infrastructure projects, commercial zones, and urban expansion.
How Much You Need to Start (Realistic Figures)
You can begin from:
₦1.5M–₦5M → Emerging areas with high future growth
₦6M–₦15M → Semi-urban locations
₦20M–₦100M+ → Prime and luxury zones
Most diaspora investors start with £1,500–£5,000 / $2,000–$8,000.
How to Protect Your Land When You Live Abroad
A. Fence and Gate the Land
Reduces land grabbing risks to almost zero.
B. Register Your Deed & Survey
This places your name in government records.
C. Use a Registered Property Management Company
They will:
Visit the site periodically
Keep the land secure
Handle tenant or development issues
D. Install a Land Beacon or Signpost
Shows your name and plot number.
Common Mistakes Diaspora Investors Make
Buying land because “family said so”
Relying on village people or relatives
Skipping title verification
Paying without documentation
Falling for cheap but unsafe land
Not getting professional guidance
Believing verbal promises
Not planning for long-term ROI
Avoid these, and your investment becomes solid.
How Land Builds Generational Wealth
Land is the foundation of long-term wealth because:
It always appreciates
It can be developed into rentals
It can be used as collateral
It can be passed down easily
It creates passive income
It lasts forever
Your children may inherit multiple properties just because you made one smart decision today.
Final Advice for Diaspora Beginners
Start small.Start safely.Start with verified information.Start with professionals who put transparency over hype.
Your goal isn’t just to buy land.Your goal is to create family wealth, protect what you’ve worked for abroad, and maintain your connection to home with pride and confidence.
🏢 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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