If you’re trying to buy land in Nigeria, one of the questions you likely have is “how to get a governor’s consent in Nigeria”. First you need to know why this document is so important for your property ownership?

And in this letter from GLE Properties will walk you through the complete process of obtaining a governor’s consent. This will come in handy for you to fully protect your interest and property investments like lands and houses.

What is the Governor’s Consent?

What exactly is the governor’s consent, you may be wondering? Governor’s consent, especially as pertaining to Nigeria is an official approval from the state governor that allows you to legally own and transfer land.

The Land Use Act of 1978 requires all land transactions to have governor’s consent before they become legally valid. This law gives state governors control over all land within their states. The Governor of the State reserves the right to approve or decline the application for a consent, depending on your compliance with the requirements.

Getting the governor’s consent in Nigeria may seem a bit complex, but with the right guidance and proper documentation, the process becomes much easier. Let me show you exactly how to get through this important requirement without stress.

Why You Need Governor’s Consent in Nigeria

1. Legally Protect Your Investment

A Governor’s consent gives you full legal protection over your land and properties. Without this consent, your property ownership can be challenged in court, and you might lose out.

Often, property buyers think having a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is enough. However, any transfer or sale of that land still needs a fresh governor’s consent to enforce the transaction legally.

2. Required for Property Development

Before you can build on your land, most banks and construction companies will ask to see your governor’s consent in Nigeria. This document proves that you have legal rights to develop the property.

3. Essential for Land Sales

If you want to sell your land in the future, the buyer will definitely ask for your governor’s consent, provided you mentioned you have it. Properties without this consent are much harder to sell and often fetch lower prices, but with a Governor’s consent, you can put up your price as needed.

Step-by-Step Process to The Get Governor’s Consent in Nigeria

1. Gather Required Documents

Before you set out to apply for the governor’s consent, you need these essential documents:

  • Deeds/Instruments of Transfer (3 copies) with Clear Survey Plans: Submit three copies of the Deeds or Instruments of Transfer, each accompanied by clear and precise survey plans.
  • Passport Photographs: Include four passport-sized photographs (5×5) with a white background.
  • Certificate of Incorporation and Form of Directors: For company applications, including the Certificate of Incorporation and forms detailing your company’s directors.
  • Site Photographs and Location Sketch: Provide photographs of the site along with a location sketch for context.
  • Payment Receipt: Submit a payment receipt of NGN 10,500.00 for charting, endorsement, and Form 1C processing.
  • Letter of Authority and Covering Letter: If applying on behalf of the landowner, include a Letter of Authority along with a comprehensive covering letter detailing your contact information.

Make sure all documents are original or certified copies. Incomplete documentation is the most common reason for application delays alongside possible rejection.

2. Complete the Application Form

Go to the state’s Ministry of Lands or download the governor’s consent application form online from the states digital media.

Fill out your forms carefully with accurate information. Any mistakes can delay your application for weeks or months. This document (especially Form1C should be present with other documents

  • Duly Completed Land Form 1C: Complete the Land Form 1C thoroughly, as it is the primary document for your application.
  • Certified True Copy (CTC) of Root of Title: Provide a Certified True Copy of the root of title to establish the ownership history.

3. Pay Required Fees

Each state has different fees for processing the Governor’s consent in Nigeria. These fees typically include:

  • Application processing fee
  • Survey verification fee
  • Administrative charges
  • Consent fee (usually a percentage of property value)

Keep all payment receipts as you’ll need them throughout the process.

4. Submit Your Application

The next step is to submit your completed application with all supporting documents to the appropriate government office. In most states, this is the Ministry of Lands or Lands Bureau.

Some states now accept online submissions, while others require physical submission. Check your state’s specific requirements.

5. Wait for Processing and Approval

During this period of processing, there a few things happening in the backend. Once you have submitted the necessary requirements, you wait for processing

  1. Technical assessment of the application by relevant authorities
  2. Calculation of consent fees based on the land’s value
  3. Authorized officials perform review
  4. Issuance of the Governor’s Consent or equivalent approval

6. Collection of Consent Certificate

Once application has been approved, you’ll be notified to collect your governor’s consent certificate. This document shows:

  • Official government seal and signature
  • Property description and location
  • Your ownership rights
  • Any conditions or restrictions
  • Validity period (if applicable)

Common Challenges and Solutions To Obtaining Governor’s Consent in Nigeria

1. Document Issues

Many applications get delayed because of incomplete or incorrect documents. For this reason, ensure to always double-check your paperwork before submission.

Work with qualified professionals like surveyors and lawyers to ensure all documents meet the required government standards.

2. Property Disputes

If there are any disputes about your land, when you apply for the governor’s consent in Nigeria it will be suspended until the disputes are resolved. Always conduct thorough due diligence before buying land to avoid these complications later.

3. Zoning Violations

Ensure your intended land use matches the area’s zoning regulations. Commercial activities on residential land, for example, can cause application rejection. Check zoning requirements with local planning authorities before submitting your application.

Also Read:

Tips for Faster Processing

1. Use Professional Services

Consider hiring experienced land lawyers or verified property consultants with track record of specializing in governor’s consent applications in Nigeria. Their expertise can prevent costly mistakes and delays.

2. Ensure Complete Documentation

Submit all required documents at your first attempt. Incomplete applications always take longer to process.

3. Pay Fees Promptly

Pay all required fees as soon as possible. Outstanding payments can delay your application indefinitely.

4. Regular Follow Up

Never leave your application unattended. Follow up to find out the status of your application regularly, but don’t be too pushy. Polite inquiries show you’re serious about completing the process.

Conclusion

Obtaining governor’s consent in Nigeria is essential for the legal security of your property. While this application process requires patience and careful attention to detail, if you follow the highlighted steps carefully. Your application should be successfully granted.

Remember that governor’s consent protects your investment and makes gives your property value. Don’t skip this important step, even if it seems complicated at first.

Have you been wanting to buy land or house in Ibadan, Epe, Ajah, Lekki, Ibeju-Lekki or anywhere in Nigeria? Reach out to us on +234 806 400 3456 or send an email to support@godslandempire.com. We are ever ready to assist you on your property ownership journey in Nigeria.