08/08/2026
βοΈ CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY vs DEED OF ASSIGNMENT vs POWER OF ATTORNEY vs LAND PURCHASE RECEIPT
A lot of people buy land in Nigeria without fully understanding the documents involved.
Some people even believe that once they have a receipt, they automatically own the land.Legally, that is not always correct.
These documents serve different purposes, and understanding them can save you from serious land problems.
π 1. CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY (C of O)
A Certificate of Occupancy is an official document issued by the government showing that a person has a legal right to occupy and use land.
It is evidence of a Right of Occupancy under the Land Use Act and is usually granted for 99 years. It remains one of the strongest proofs of title in Nigeria.
Example: If the government allocates land to Mr. Ogidi and issues him a C of O, the government officially recognizes him as the holder of that land.
π₯’ C of O = Government-recognized title.
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π 2. DEED OF ASSIGNMENT
A Deed of Assignment is the document used to transfer ownership or interest in land from one person to another. This is the document that shows the seller has transferred his rights to the buyer.
For proper legal protection, it should be: Properly signed, Stamped and Registered
Example: Mr. Emeka sells his land to Mr. Abiola, A Deed of Assignment is prepared to transfer ownership to Mr. Emeka.
π₯’ Deed of Assignment = Transfer of ownership/title.
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π 3. POWER OF ATTORNEY
A Power of Attorney gives another person authority to act on behalf of the owner regarding land or property. It may authorize someone to manage, negotiate, sell, or handle land transactions on behalf of the owner.
However, a Power of Attorney is NOT the proper document used to transfer title or ownership of land.
A proper transfer of title is usually done through a Deed of Assignment or other valid title documents.
Example: Mr. Ben travels abroad and gives Mr. Tony a Power of Attorney to manage or sell his land on his behalf.
π₯’ Power of Attorney = Authority to act, not transfer of title.
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π 4. LAND PURCHASE RECEIPT
A land purchase receipt only shows that money was paid for land. On its own, it is not sufficient proof of ownership. Relying only on a receipt without proper title documents can be risky.
Example: If Mr. Frank pays for land and receives only a receipt, but no Deed of Assignment or title documents, his ownership may still be challenged.
π₯’ Land Purchase Receipt = Evidence of payment only.
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π Before buying land:
π Verify the title
π Conduct proper search
π Use the right documents
π Involve a lawyer
Secure your land the right way.
