If you’re planning to buy land or property in Lagos and you’re unsure about the difference between C of O and Governor’s Consent, you’re not alone and trust me, it’s a big deal! Making the wrong move because you didn’t fully understand this legal difference could cost you millions (and possibly a few sleepless nights).
Many Lagosians think these two documents are the same, but they’re not, and knowing the distinction could make or break your real estate investment. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer in Lekki or a seasoned investor eyeing land in Ibeju-Lekki, you’ll want to get the full gist.
That’s why we broke it down clearly in this helpful guide: 4 main difference between C of O and Governor’s Consent you should know. You’ll learn exactly what to look out for, and how to protect your investment like a pro. Click that link to discover the real tea on this legal land wahala!
1. Who Gives You the Document?
Let’s start with the basics.
A C of O (Certificate of Occupancy) is like the “original birth certificate” of a land — it’s issued by the government to the first person that owns or gets allocated that land.
But Governor’s Consent? That one is for second-hand land buyers. If someone already has a C of O and wants to sell to you, you need the Governor of Lagos State to say, “Yes, I approve this transfer.”
So in simple terms:
- C of O = for land “born” new.
- Governor’s Consent = for land that’s changing hands.
2. When You Need It
Timing is everything, my dear.
If you’re buying directly from the government or a legit real estate developer with virgin land, you’ll most likely get a C of O.
But if you’re buying land from someone else who already owns it (like a friend, a family member, or even from an Omo Onile who now wears a suit), then you’ll need to apply for Governor’s Consent to legalize that transfer.
So, think of it like this:
- C of O = the beginning of ownership.
- Governor’s Consent = continuation of ownership.
3. How the Government Sees It
The Lagos government no dey play when it comes to land! They need to keep tabs on who owns what.
That’s why every time a land is sold and the buyer doesn’t apply for Governor’s Consent, it’s like trying to collect salary without doing biometric capture — no record, no show.
The difference between C of O and Governor’s Consent is also in how the government tracks land ownership over time. A C of O starts the file. The Governor’s Consent updates the file.
4. Cost and Process
Let’s not lie — both can be expensive and stressful in Nigeria. But they’re necessary stress if you want to sleep well at night.
Getting a C of O can be cheaper upfront when buying directly from developers, but it takes time.
Governor’s Consent, on the other hand, might cost you more in legal and processing fees, especially when dealing with previously owned land.
So again:
- C of O = New land, cheaper but takes time.
- Governor’s Consent = Transferred land, quicker but more expensive.
So, What’s the Final Gist?
Let’s do a quick recap like we’re playing “Who Wants to Be a Landlord?” 😄
- C of O is for brand-new land — the very first time it’s being owned.
- Governor’s Consent is for land that’s being resold — someone owned it before you.
- Both are important for legal ownership in Lagos — don’t skip them o!
- One starts your land journey (C of O), the other continues it (Governor’s Consent).
Now here’s the thing, my dear: if you don’t understand the difference between C of O and Governor’s Consent, you could buy “sweet land” today and end up crying in court tomorrow. Lagos land market no dey pity who no get sense o — or who no ask questions!
So don’t do “I too know”. Don’t let all this juicy information just pass you by like Danfo with no change.
👉🏽 Contact Hanuel Homes for a free guide — and let us hold your hand through the confusing parts. Yes, we’ll explain it like ABC. You’ll understand your documents before you sign anything. And it won’t cost you a kobo.
Honestly, it would be a real shame to read this post, nod in agreement, and still go and fall for land wahala because you didn’t reach out. Don’t let that be your story.
If you’ve read this far and refuse to contact Hanuel Homes for a free guide, na you sabi 😅 — but please don’t say we didn’t warn you.
