In Lagos, Nigeria, a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is a crucial document for landowners. It proves legal ownership of land under the Land Use Act of 1978. With the rising cases of land fraud, verifying the authenticity of a C of O has become essential. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to verify a Certificate of Occupancy in Lagos.

Understanding Certificate of Occupancy

A Certificate of Occupancy is a legal document issued by the Lagos State Government to landowners and property buyers as a legitimate proof of ownership. This document specifies the rights of the individual or entity to the property and land.

Steps to Verify a Certificate of Occupancy

Step 1: Visit the Lagos State Lands Bureau

Physical Verification: The first step in verifying a C of O is to visit the Lagos State Lands Bureau. This agency is responsible for land administration and registry in Lagos State. They have the complete database and records of all issued Certificates of Occupancy.

Step 2: Submit a Verification Request

Request Submission: At the Lands Bureau, submit a request for the verification of a C of O. You will be required to provide details such as the plot number, block number, survey plan number, and the C of O number. It’s essential to have all these details accurate to facilitate the verification process.

Step 3: Pay the Verification Fee

Payment of Fees: Verification of a C of O comes with a fee. Ensure you inquire about the current fee and make the payment accordingly. Receipt of payment will be required as part of the verification process.

Step 4: Verification Process

Processing Time: After submission and payment, the Lands Bureau will conduct a thorough verification of the C of O against their records. This process may take some time, ranging from a few days to weeks, depending on the volume of requests being processed.

Step 5: Collect Verification Report

Collection of Report: Once the verification process is complete, you will be issued a verification report. This report will indicate the authenticity of the C of O. If the document is verified to be authentic, the report will serve as added proof of the legality of your property’s ownership.

Why Verify a Certificate of Occupancy?

The importance of verifying a C of O cannot be overstated. Here are some reasons why it’s essential:

Prevents Fraud: Verification helps to prevent falling victim to land scams and purchasing properties with forged documents.

Confirms Authenticity: It assures the buyer or current owner of the land’s authenticity and legal standing.

Facilitates Transactions: A verified C of O is often required by financial institutions for loan approvals against land or property.

Common Certificate of Occupancy Frauds in Lagos

While the Certificate of Occupancy is a critical document for property owners in Lagos, it is also a focal point for various fraudulent activities. Being aware of these common frauds can help property buyers and owners stay vigilant and protect their investments.

Forged Documents

Counterfeit C of O: There are instances where fraudsters create counterfeit Certificates of Occupancy. These documents may look remarkably similar to the original but lack the legal backing and verification from the Lagos State Lands Bureau.

Double Allocation Fraud

Multiple Owners: This occurs when a single plot of land is sold to multiple buyers, each provided with a seemingly legitimate C of O. This fraudulent practice not only leads to legal battles but also questions the authenticity of the C of O issued.

Land Grabbing

Illegal Seizure: Land grabbers, also known as “Omo Onile” in local parlance, might forge a C of O to claim ownership of lands they do not legally own. They exploit unsuspecting buyers by selling these lands and providing fake certificates as proof of ownership.

Bribery and Corruption

Inside Job: Some fraudulent activities involve insiders within the land administration system. Unscrupulous officials might collude with fraudsters to issue or endorse fake Certificates of Occupancy for personal gain.

How to Protect Yourself from C of O Frauds

To safeguard against these frauds, consider the following precautions:

Verify Before Purchase

Always verify the C of O through the Lagos State Lands Bureau before proceeding with any land purchase. This step cannot be overstated in its importance.

Legal Counsel

Engage a reputable legal practitioner or a property verification expert to conduct due diligence on the property and its documents.

Research the Seller

Conduct thorough research on the seller or property developer. Check their reputation, past projects, and reviews from previous buyers.

Insist on Transparency

Demand transparency in every step of the buying process. Any reluctance to provide detailed information or rush the process should raise red flags.

Report Suspicious Activities

If you encounter any suspicious activities or individuals during your property transaction, report them to the authorities. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Special Fraud Unit (SFU) of the Nigeria Police are competent authorities to handle such cases.

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*Isong is a TOP REALTOR IN LAGOS. He Helps Nigerians in the Diaspora to Own Property In Lagos Nigeria STRESS-FREE. For Questions WhatsApp/Call 2348164741041

The Financial Times, one of the world’s leading business news organisations, has ranked Moniepoint Inc, the parent company of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, Moniepoint MFB and TeamApt Ltd, as Africa’s fastest-growing financial institution.

The world’s leading financial publication confirmed Moniepoint Inc’s recognition in its annual “Africa’s Fastest Growing Companies” survey, which was released today. Moniepoint has achieved the fastest-growing fintech milestone for the second year in a row, and it is also one of Africa’s top four fastest-growing companies overall.

Statista, a leading research firm known for its insight into African companies’ actual performance, conducted the survey following a rigorous screening process. Companies are ranked in this survey based on their absolute revenue growth rate and compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the years 2019-2022.Moniepoint’s growth rates of 7,979% (absolute) and 332% (CAGR) put it ahead of hundreds of leading companies in a variety of industries, including technology, telecoms, financial services, and healthcare.

Moniepoint Inc has long been one of Africa’s largest business payment platforms, processing more than $182 billion for customers in 2023. It should be noted that in August 2023, Moniepoint MFB entered the personal banking market, providing dependable banking services to millions of people across Nigeria. The holding company’s global headcount has also doubled, reaching over 1,800 by the end of 2023.

This recognition highlights Moniepoint’s success as Africa’s leading fintech, driving financial inclusion by enabling underserved businesses and individuals to access the formal financial system, thereby contributing to the Nigerian government’s key goal.

Tosin Eniolorunda, CEO of Moniepoint Inc., stated:

“For the second year in a row, the Financial Times has named us Africa’s fastest growing fintech company. Achieving rapid growth and scale is an outstanding achievement; maintaining it year after year is even better. The ranking reflects the dedication and hard work of the entire Moniepoint team, as well as the trust placed in the company by millions of African customers.

“Moniepoint experienced a pivotal year in 2023. Moniepoint has transitioned from being an agency-dominated institution to one that is dominated by merchants as more people adopt digital payment solutions. It is humbling to see how we have become a household name that people know and trust, the go-to for dependable transactions every time.

With our entry into the personal banking market, we have been able to provide seamless and dependable payment solutions to Nigerians, particularly those in underserved communities, as we continue to expand access to financial services and contribute to economic growth and wealth creation. 2024 promises to be even more exciting, with continued growth, driving compliance and innovation, as we maintain our leadership position in the African fintech sector, driving financial inclusion throughout Africa.”

According to David Pilling, FT Africa’s editor,

“The third year of our expanded ranking of Africa’s Fastest Growing Companies comes as many economies struggle to recover from the Covid pandemic. The FT-Statista list identifies companies that have grown despite adversity, often by disrupting markets…This year’s ranking includes a broader geographical spread of companies than previously. Morocco is the big newcomer, with 12 companies in the top 125, up from three the previous time. Mauritian-domiciled companies also performed well, with nine winners compared to four in 2022. South Africa led the list with 42 companies, Nigeria followed with 25, and Kenya tied for third with 12.

Moniepoint Inc.’s technology supports over five million businesses and their customers, providing all of the payment, banking, credit, and business management tools they require to succeed. Moniepoint has established itself as a market leader in Nigeria across a variety of segments, including commerce, health, and hospitality, among many others. Its transformational and positive strides have earned it local and international recognition.

CB Insights named Moniepoint Inc to its list of the 100 most promising private fintech companies for the second year in a row in 2023. Moniepoint MFB received the Rising Star Family Business Award at the PwC/Businessday Family Business Summit and the Fintech Company of the Year award at the 16th Annual Leadership Newspapers Conference and Awards.

According to industry analysts, Moniepoint Inc is well-positioned to continue delivering innovative solutions that promote inclusivity, drive sustainability, and open up new vistas in the markets in which it operates.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori stated on Wednesday that investments in the state were safe and secure, as Delta remained a top choice for investors from across the country.

Governor Oborevwori made this statement during the inauguration of AHL Gas Processing Plant 2 in Othe Gbe-Ani community, Kwale, Ndokwa West Local Government Area of the state.

He stated that the AHL-GPP2, a joint venture between SEEPCO and NNPC Limited, was a clear indication that investments in the state were secure and that the state was the first port of call for investors.

He praised President Bola Tinubu for his extraordinary political will and wisdom in confronting the nation’s challenges and hoped that under his leadership, Nigeria would achieve the much-desired goal of becoming a strong, prosperous, and united nation.

He stated, “As you inaugurate the AHL Gas Processing Plant, GPP2, here in Kwale, Delta State, this event marks a significant milestone for the country, particularly for the people of Delta State.

“The GPP2 represents a significant step forward in our efforts to unlock the potential of Nigeria’s natural gas resources, particularly in the energy sector.

“With its ability to produce high-quality gas, this facility serves as a beacon of hope and prosperity for our country, as the clean gas produced in this plant will be transported via the OB3 Gas pipeline, maximising our distribution network and ensuring efficient gas delivery to various destinations.

“This event will strengthen our energy security while also stimulating economic growth, creating job opportunities, and raising the standard of living for our people.

“As we commemorate this historic occasion, we must also look to the future with hope, as construction on the GPP3 is already underway.

“This demonstrates that investments in Delta State are secure, and the state is the first port of call for investors.”

President Bola Tinubu, who inaugurated three critical gas infrastructure projects undertaken by SEEPCO, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and its partners, stated that the projects’ commissioning was consistent with his administration’s commitment to significantly leveraging gas to grow the Nigerian economy.

The president has commissioned three projects: the AHL Gas Processing Plant 2 (GPP – 2) – 200mmscf/d, which is an expansion of the Kwale Gas Processing Plant (GPP – 1); the AHL Gas Plant, which is being developed by AHL Limited, an incorporated joint venture owned by NNPC Limited and SEEPCO; and the ANOH-OB3 CTMS Gas Pipeline Project.

Speaking at the event, President Tinubu stated that the three critical gas projects support the Federal Government’s efforts to extract more value from the country’s gas assets while eliminating gas flaring.

He stated that the projects have been accelerated since the administration’s inception to achieve the overall goal of deepening domestic gas supply as a critical enabler for long-term economic growth.