Can a Foreigner Buy Property in Ogun State?
Introduction
Ogun State, Nigeria, has become one of the fastest-growing real estate markets in West Africa — thanks to its proximity to Lagos, affordable land prices, improved infrastructure, and ongoing government-backed estate developments. As foreign interest in Nigerian real estate grows, many international investors are asking:
“Can a foreigner legally buy property in Ogun State?”
The short answer is: Yes, a foreigner can buy property in Ogun State.
But — as with most countries — there are legal, procedural, and ownership restrictions you must understand before investing.
This article offers a step-by-step guide for foreigners looking to buy land or property in Ogun State, Nigeria. We’ll cover:
What Nigerian law says about foreign ownership,
Legal structures that allow secure ownership,
Property types foreigners can buy,
How to register property as a foreigner,
Risks to avoid and how to protect your investment.
Can a Foreigner Own Land or Property in Ogun State?
Yes, But With Conditions
Under Nigerian land law, foreigners are not outrightly prohibited from owning property. However, they must go through formal legal procedures, usually involving:
Obtaining Governor’s Consent,
Entering a leasehold arrangement, and
Complying with the Land Use Act of 1978.
Foreigners can own land and property on leasehold basis, usually for 99 years, subject to state government approval.
Legal Reference:
Section 1 of the Land Use Act vests all land in Nigeria in the Governor of each state, who can grant statutory rights of occupancy to individuals and entities — including foreigners — upon application.
What Types of Property Can a Foreigner Buy in Ogun?
| Property Type | Allowed for Foreigners? |
|---|---|
| Residential Land | Yes (on leasehold) |
| Commercial Property | Yes |
| Agricultural Land | Restricted (only with government approval) |
| Government Allocated Plots | With Governor’s Consent |
| Family Land (Omo-Onile) | Not recommended unless title is perfected |
Popular Areas in Ogun for Foreign Investment
Ogun offers several rapidly developing locations that appeal to foreign investors:
Arepo & OPIC
Close to Lagos, within driving distance to Ikeja.
Secure, government-backed estates.
Popular with returning Nigerians.
Mowe & Ibafo
Affordable land prices.
Fast-growing residential estates.
Popular among diaspora buyers.
Abeokuta
The state capital, with universities and growing business opportunities.
Sagamu Interchange
Industrial hub with rapid commercial expansion.
Great for warehouses and logistics-based investment.
Step-by-Step Guide: How a Foreigner Can Buy Property in Ogun State
Step 1: Appoint a Legal Representative in Nigeria
Hire a Nigerian property lawyer to:
Represent you locally,
Draft agreements,
Verify documents,
Handle land registry filings.
If you’re overseas, issue a Power of Attorney (PoA) authorizing the lawyer to act on your behalf.
Step 2: Identify the Property
Choose from:
Government-approved estates (e.g., OPIC, New Makun City),
Private developers,
Direct owners (only with verified title).
Your lawyer or real estate advisor should:
Conduct site inspections,
Perform due diligence,
Verify land titles with the Ogun State Land Registry.
Step 3: Verify Ownership & Documentation
Documents to verify:
Deed of Assignment or Allotment
Survey Plan
Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) or Gazette
Governor’s Consent
Avoid unregistered lands or “family land” unless it’s already regularized.
Step 4: Draft and Sign Legal Agreements
Sales Agreement: Outlines buyer/seller obligations.
Deed of Assignment: Transfers legal interest to you.
Witnessed by both parties and notarized.
Step 5: Apply for Governor’s Consent
The Governor of Ogun State must approve your land transaction.
This step ensures:
Legality of the transaction,
Recognition by the state,
Your name is registered as lawful leaseholder.
Processing time: 3–6 months (varies)Step 6: Register Your Property at the Ogun State Land Registry
Your lawyer will:
Submit the Deed of Assignment and other documents,
Pay stamp duties,
Obtain land registry registration and certified copies.
Once registered, you become the legal leaseholder of the property – with rights protected by law.
Can a Foreign Company Own Property in Ogun?
Yes, a foreign company registered in Nigeria under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) can own property in Ogun.
Requirements:
Register a Nigerian subsidiary or branch with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN).
Buy property in the company’s name.
Comply with land registration laws.
This is the preferred method for foreign business entities and real estate investors.
Key Legal Documents Involved
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Power of Attorney (PoA) | Authorizes your lawyer to act for you |
| Sales Agreement | Legal framework of the purchase |
| Deed of Assignment | Transfers ownership |
| Governor’s Consent | Approves and legalizes transfer |
| Certificate of Occupancy | Proves land rights |
| Land Registry Acknowledgement | Final confirmation of ownership |
Can I Buy While Abroad?
Yes! You don’t have to travel to Nigeria to buy property in Ogun.
Here’s how:
Appoint a lawyer via Power of Attorney.
Get documents notarized in your country.
Courier originals to Nigeria.
Your lawyer will conduct inspections, sign agreements, and register titles for you.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Buying land with no title or proof of ownership.
Dealing with unregistered agents.
Skipping the Governor’s Consent.
Failing to register your documents with the Land Registry.
Paying into personal bank accounts.
Can I Use a Property Trust as a Foreigner?
Yes, you can register a property trust in Ogun to:
Hold property on behalf of your heirs or business,
Protect against land grabbing,
Manage succession.
You can appoint a trustee (lawyer or company) and register the trust deed with the Ogun State High Court.
How to Protect Your Investment as a Foreigner
Use a qualified Nigerian lawyer.
Verify all property documentation.
Use escrow accounts for large payments.
Avoid cash payments or personal accounts.
Register everything at the Ogun State Land Registry.
Get Governor’s Consent without delay.
Case Study: James, U.K.-Based Investor
James, a British citizen of Nigerian descent, purchased 2 plots in Arepo while living in London.
He:
Used a Lagos-based lawyer with Ogun property experience.
Appointed the lawyer via Power of Attorney.
Bought from a government-approved estate.
Got Governor’s Consent and registered the title.
Now, James visits Nigeria once a year and sees his property safely fenced and developing.
Summary: Can Foreigners Buy Property in Ogun?
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can foreigners own land in Ogun? | Yes, on leasehold |
| Can they buy from overseas? | Yes, via Power of Attorney |
| Do they need Governor’s Consent? | Absolutely |
| Can companies own land? | Yes, if registered with CAC |
| Can they resell or transfer the property? | Yes, within lease terms |
Call to Action
Are you a foreign investor or living in the diaspora and ready to buy property in Ogun State?
Let us help you:
Legally acquire land,
Register your title,
Obtain Governor’s Consent,
And protect your investment — even from abroad.
Secure your property the right way. Legally. Safely. Smartly.