How to Receive Your Lagos Property Documents While Abroad
Introduction
For many Nigerians living abroad, buying a property in Lagos is more than an investment—it is an emotional and financial reconnection with home. Whether it is a duplex in Lekki, an apartment in Ikeja GRA, or land in Ibeju-Lekki, diaspora investors want the joy of ownership without the fear of losing their money or property. But one of the biggest questions Nigerians in the diaspora often ask is: “How can I receive my property documents while I’m abroad?”
The challenge of distance, bureaucracy, and potential fraud makes this a serious concern. However, the good news is that with the right legal process, professional representation, and modern logistics, you can safely receive your Lagos property documents while abroad without stepping foot in Nigeria.
In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about receiving your Lagos property documents from overseas—from the roles of lawyers and government offices to courier procedures, verification steps, and document authentication. We will also share a real-life case study and provide practical FAQs.
If you follow this guide carefully, you will understand how to legally, safely, and confidently receive your property documents wherever you are in the world.
Understanding Lagos Property Documentation
When you buy property in Lagos, your ownership is not just based on the physical land—it is established through documentation. These documents serve as your legal proof of ownership and are recognized under Nigerian law. The major property documents in Lagos include:
Deed of Assignment: A legal instrument that transfers ownership of property from the seller (assignor) to the buyer (assignee). It must be registered at the Lands Registry.
Certificate of Occupancy (C of O): Issued by the Lagos State Government to show that you have a legal right of occupancy over the land.
Governor’s Consent: A mandatory approval from the Governor to validate any transfer of property already under a C of O.
Survey Plan: This defines the exact boundaries and size of your property and must be authenticated by the Office of the Surveyor-General of Lagos State.
Receipt of Purchase: Proof of payment for the property, often issued by the developer or seller.
Building Approval and Development Permits: For developed properties, these come from the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) and Building Control Agency (LASBCA).
Each of these documents has its own legal importance, and together they form your bundle of title.
Why Diaspora Investors Face Challenges Receiving Property Documents
Many diaspora buyers encounter problems such as:
Incomplete or delayed documentation from developers or agents.
Lack of trusted representatives in Lagos to collect documents.
Inability to verify authenticity before documents are sent abroad.
Fear of tampering or forgery during courier delivery.
Ignorance of the legal steps required to perfect and register documents.
These challenges exist because Lagos property transactions involve multiple agencies—such as the Lagos State Land Bureau, Deeds Registry, Surveyor-General’s Office, and Physical Planning Permit Authority—and each has specific processes that require professional navigation.
That is why it is essential to work with a competent property lawyer, like Chaman Law Firm, who can represent your interest legally, monitor every step, and ensure your documents reach you intact and legally perfected.
Step-by-Step Process for Receiving Your Lagos Property Documents While Abroad
Step 1: Engage a Trusted Property Lawyer or Law Firm
Your first and most important step is to engage a reputable property lawyer in Lagos. A property lawyer ensures that all transactions comply with Nigerian laws, verifies titles, drafts legal documents, and registers them with the relevant authorities.
For diaspora clients, the lawyer acts as a legal representative in Nigeria—handling signing, submission, and collection of documents on your behalf. The lawyer can also issue periodic updates and digital copies for your review.
At Chaman Law Firm, we assist diaspora investors by handling every aspect of this process, including title verification, document perfection, and secure dispatch to your location abroad.
Step 2: Execute a Power of Attorney
Because you are outside Nigeria, you need a Power of Attorney (POA) to authorize your lawyer or trusted representative to act on your behalf. The POA gives your lawyer legal authority to sign and collect documents in your name.
You can sign the POA abroad at your local Nigerian Embassy or Consulate. Once signed, it will be sent to Nigeria, stamped at the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and then registered at the Lagos Lands Registry. This registration gives it full legal recognition.
A properly executed POA prevents delays and ensures your lawyer can complete all documentation and registration processes seamlessly.
Step 3: Verify the Property Title at the Lagos Land Bureau
Before receiving your property documents, ensure the property itself has a valid title. Your lawyer will conduct a search at the Lagos Land Bureau, Alausa, to verify that:
The property is not under government acquisition.
The title is registered and free of encumbrances.
The owner’s name matches the seller.
Title search verification is crucial because once the documents are processed, any irregularity could invalidate your ownership claim.
Step 4: Draft and Execute the Deed of Assignment
Once the title is verified, your lawyer will prepare a Deed of Assignment—the document that officially transfers ownership from the seller to you. It will include details of the property, names of parties, consideration (price), and signatures.
If you are abroad, your signature can be done via a scanned copy or signed physically and couriered to your lawyer in Nigeria. The Deed of Assignment will then be stamped and submitted for registration at the Lagos Deeds Registry.
Registration ensures public acknowledgment of your ownership and prevents double transfer.
Step 5: Obtain Governor’s Consent
If the property already has a C of O, your lawyer will apply for Governor’s Consent to validate the transfer. This process is done at the Lagos State Land Bureau and involves submitting:
Duly executed Deed of Assignment
Survey plan
Application letter
Receipt of payment
Passport photographs and identification of both parties
The Governor’s Consent is one of the most vital documents in Lagos property transactions and should always be obtained to secure your ownership rights.
Step 6: Perfect and Collect All Documents
After registration and consent, your property documents will be ready for collection. Your lawyer will collect them directly from the Land Bureau, Deeds Registry, or Surveyor-General’s Office.
Typically, the documents to be collected include:
Stamped and registered Deed of Assignment
Governor’s Consent Certificate
Certified true copy of the survey
Receipts and acknowledgment letters from the Land Bureau
Your lawyer will then scan and send you soft copies for confirmation before couriering the originals abroad.
Step 7: Authenticate and Courier the Documents Abroad
When sending property documents abroad, authenticity and safety are paramount. Your lawyer must authenticate them at the Federal Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Foreign Affairs before dispatch. This ensures they are recognized by foreign authorities and cannot be easily forged.
Courier delivery should be handled through a reputable international service such as DHL, FedEx, or UPS. The documents should be sealed in tamper-proof packaging, and tracking numbers must be shared with you.
For added assurance, you can request notarization from a Nigerian Notary Public or the Nigerian Embassy in your country of residence.
Key Lagos Government Offices Involved
Lagos State Land Bureau, Alausa: Handles Governor’s Consent, C of O issuance, and land verification.
Lagos Deeds Registry: Responsible for the registration of Deeds of Assignment and other land transfer instruments.
Office of the Surveyor-General of Lagos State: Verifies and authenticates survey plans.
Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA): Grants building approvals.
Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA): Ensures building conformity and safety.
Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Abuja): Handles document legalization for use abroad.
Understanding these offices helps you follow up effectively and ensure transparency throughout the process.
How Chaman Law Firm Simplifies the Process for Diaspora Clients
At Chaman Law Firm, we have developed a specialized Diaspora Real Estate Legal Service designed to simplify the entire process of buying property and receiving documentation from abroad.
Our services include:
Title verification and property due diligence
Preparation and execution of Deeds and legal documents
Application for Governor’s Consent and C of O
Authentication at relevant ministries
Courier dispatch to clients abroad
Legal representation at all Lagos property offices
We also collaborate closely with Chaman Properties, which helps diaspora clients identify secure and verified properties in Lagos with clear titles and genuine developers.
With both entities working together, you enjoy a full-circle solution—from property purchase to document delivery—without the risk of fraud or legal complication.
Security Measures to Protect Your Documents
Use a Verified Legal Representative: Only authorize a recognized law firm to collect and courier your documents.
Insist on Sealing and Authentication: Ensure documents are stamped, signed, and verified at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Track Courier Movements: Always use a courier service that provides tracking and delivery confirmation.
Store Soft Copies Securely: Keep digital copies in a password-protected cloud drive.
Avoid Informal Collection: Never permit an unverified individual to handle your property papers.
Case Study: How a UK-Based Nigerian Safely Received His Property Documents
Mr. Adewale, a Nigerian living in Manchester, purchased a serviced apartment in Lekki Phase 1 through Chaman Properties. Because he was abroad, he appointed Chaman Law Firm through a Power of Attorney to handle all legal formalities.
The firm verified the title at the Lagos Land Bureau, prepared and registered the Deed of Assignment, obtained the Governor’s Consent, and authenticated all documents. After completion, the documents were couriered to the UK through DHL with tracking and insurance.
Within two weeks, Mr. Adewale received his documents in perfect condition. Today, his property is fully secured, and he also earns rental income through a property management arrangement with Chaman Properties.
This success story shows that distance is no longer a barrier when working with trusted professionals.
Common Mistakes Diaspora Investors Should Avoid
Buying from unverified agents or developers without due diligence.
Failing to execute a Power of Attorney before starting documentation.
Using family or friends without legal expertise to handle document collection.
Ignoring registration and consent processes.
Receiving uncertified or unsealed documents through informal channels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I receive my Lagos property documents without traveling to Nigeria?
Yes. With a valid Power of Attorney and a competent lawyer, your property documents can be processed, collected, authenticated, and sent to you abroad safely.
2. How long does it take to process property documents in Lagos?
Depending on the document type, it can take between 6 to 16 weeks. Governor’s Consent typically takes 8–12 weeks once all paperwork is complete.
3. How can I confirm my property documents are genuine?
Your lawyer can conduct a verification search at the Lagos Land Bureau or Deeds Registry to confirm the authenticity of each document.
4. Is couriering property documents safe?
Yes, when handled by a verified law firm using trusted courier companies and sealed authentication, it is safe.
5. Can Chaman Law Firm help process and deliver my property documents?
Absolutely. Chaman Law Firm offers complete legal support for diaspora investors—from due diligence and documentation to delivery abroad.
Conclusion
Receiving your Lagos property documents while abroad is entirely possible, provided you follow the right legal process and engage trusted professionals. The Nigerian legal system fully recognizes remote representation through Power of Attorney, and with proper verification, registration, and courier authentication, you can rest assured that your property is safe.