Myths About Buying Land in Nigeria Debunked

Myths About Buying Land in Nigeria Debunked

If you’ve ever tried to buy land in Nigeria, you’ve probably heard one scary story or another. Someone has warned you, “Don’t try it o, land sellers will scam you.” Another person might insist, “Land in Lagos or Abuja is only for millionaires.” And if you’re abroad? People will say, “If you’re not physically in Nigeria, just forget it. You’ll lose your money.”

Here’s the truth: yes, Nigeria’s real estate market has its challenges: double allocation, no allocation after payment, family disputes, fake survey plans, Omo Onile issues and poorly documented titles are all real risks. But most of the fear people spread comes from second-hand gist, old experiences, or dealing with the wrong agents.

With proper due diligence, verified documents and a trusted developer, buying land in Nigeria is far more straightforward than most people think.

This guide cuts through the noise. Whether you’re here in Nigeria or in the diaspora trying to invest back home, Hybrid Landtech Limited is breaking down the most common myths we see every week from clients. As a company that has handled estate launches, land verifications, government approvals, site inspections and allocation processes across multiple states, we understand how this market truly works.

Why So Many Myths?

Before we go into the myths, let’s talk about why they even exist.

Over the years, Nigeria has had its fair share of land problems, from shady agents to “omo onile” drama. People have lost money. According to reports, 50% of real estate transactions in Nigeria involve some form of fraud. In addition, property agents are said to operate in a market where 30% of land transactions end in disputes, according to the Africanvestor. 

Some bought land that turned out to be government property. Others paid twice for the same plot. So naturally, fear and rumors spread.

But the truth remains, not all land deals are illegitimate, and not all sellers are out to scam you. In fact, today, there are honest, transparent companies helping everyday Nigerians buy land in Nigeria without trouble.

Myth 1: “Most Lands in Nigeria Are Scam”

This is one of the biggest misconceptions. It’s true that there are land scams, but not every land or seller is out there to scam you.

The real problem is people buying land without doing proper checks. If you buy land from someone without checking the title, documents, and history, you’re putting yourself at risk.

Truth: There are many verified lands across Nigeria. The key is to buy from a trusted real estate company with clear documentation. If you work with the right people, land ownership in Nigeria is safe and secure.

Myth 2: “Only Rich People Can Afford Land”

Not true at all. You don’t need to have millions sitting in your account before you can buy land in Lagos or anywhere else in Nigeria.

Let’s say you earn a modest salary or you’re just starting life abroad, you can still become a landowner. Why? Because Hybrid Landtech Limited offers some of the most affordable land products in Nigeria, suitable for any income level

Whether you earn ₦50k a month or ₦5m, there’s something for you. The best part is Hybrid Landtech has flexible payment plans. You can buy land in Lagos and pay installmentally,  making it easier to own land without breaking the bank.

We have flexible payment plans starting from as low as N100,000 (at the Eniola 2.0 scheme at Greenville 2), plus you can start your land acquisition in any of our real estate locations with just 20% initial deposit.

Myth 3: “If I’m Abroad, I Can’t Safely Buy Land in Nigeria”

This myth has stopped many Nigerians in the diaspora from investing back home. But here’s the truth: technology has changed everything.

Today, companies like Hybrid Landtech allow you to:

  • Inspect land virtually through video calls.
  • Receive scanned documents by email or courier.
  • Get real-time updates and professional support.

You don’t have to rely on a cousin or uncle who may not even understand what you want. You can deal directly with verified professionals and own land in Nigeria from abroad, with zero stress.

Myth 4: “If My Name Is Not on the C of O, I Don’t Own the Land”

This is one of the most confusing myths that has gone around in recent times. But let’s clear it up.

Yes, a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is an important document, but it’s not the only proof of ownership.

In fact, many lands start with other documents like:

  • Survey Plan
  • Deed of Assignment
  • Allocation Letter
  • Governor’s Consent

These documents are valid, and your name can appear on them. Over time, you can upgrade to a C of O or process it through the right channels.

Myth 5: “Family Land Is Always Safer Than Buying From Developers”

This is one of the most misleading assumptions in Nigerian real estate. Many people believe buying directly from land-owning families (popularly called “omo onile”) is cheaper and safer. But the facts tell a different story.

According to multiple property law reports and Lagos State land disputes data, a large percentage of court cases in land-related matters stem from family land sales. 

Why? 

Well, because ownership is often shared among several family members, and not all members may have agreed to the sale. It’s common for one person to sell land without full consent from the rest of the family, leading to endless disputes, court injunctions, and even physical confrontation on-site.

“Omo onile” sellers can also demand illegal levies after the purchase, asking buyers to pay again for “foundation,” “roofing,” or “fencing” before allowing development. These informal demands have caused many construction delays and losses for unsuspecting buyers.

On the other hand, a registered real estate company like Hybrid Landtech operates under legal and regulatory frameworks. Every property goes through ownership vetting, due diligence, survey verification, and proper titling before being sold to you. 

You receive your receipt, deed of assignment, survey plan, and allocation document, ensuring the land is traceable and free from disputes.

Omo onile land rarely stays “yours” when left undeveloped. Families often sell the same plot to multiple buyers, or new generations emerge claiming ignorance of the initial sale. Even if you fence the land, it can be demolished overnight by relatives who claim your seller had no right to sell.

Most family lands are not properly surveyed, excised, or registered, meaning the land legally still belongs to the original family. Without proper title (like a C of O or deed of assignment from a registered developer), your “ownership” is based on trust and not law.

A common pattern across Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo States is that buyers who attempt to hold undeveloped family land for a few years return to find it resold or occupied by others. The family may even claim that your payment was for temporary use, not ownership. Courts are filled with such cases – long, draining battles that can last years and cost far more than the land’s value.

Myth 6: “Lands in Remote Areas Are Useless”

A few years ago, places like Ibeju-Lekki, Epe, and Mowe were called “bush.” Today, they are fast-growing areas with massive development,  roads, companies, schools, and estates.

Land is not just about where it is now; it’s about where it’s going. If you buy land in a growing area today, you’re securing wealth for tomorrow.

Looking for the best place to buy land in Ogun State? There are locations just outside Lagos, like Mowe or Ifo, that are rising fast. These areas are affordable, developing rapidly, and perfect for smart investors.

Truth: Remote today, prime tomorrow. Early buyers always smile later.

Myth 7: “Once I Pay, I Can Start Building Immediately”

Not always true. Even after paying, you may need to wait for proper allocation or meet certain conditions like land approval or fencing rules. Some lands are in phases, and building starts only after layout planning.

The key is to ask questions and understand what stage the land is in. A good company will explain everything,  no hidden details.

How to Make a Smart Land Buying Decision

Here’s how to do it right:

  • Ask questions: Never be shy about documents, location, or payment.
  • Do your own checks: Visit the site or request a video inspection.
  • Work with trusted real estate companies: Working with a proven real estate company reduces your risk greatly.
  • Avoid shortcuts: If the deal sounds too sweet, pause and double-check.

Why HybridLandTech Limited Is the Right Choice

If you’re tired of stress and confusion around land buying in Nigeria, Hybrid LandTech Limited is here to help.

They offer:

  • Affordable lands for all income levels
  • Flexible payment plans — you can buy land in Lagos and pay installmentally
  • Clear documentation and support for Nigerians home and abroad
  • Zero stress — just honest, straightforward service

Whether you want land for building, investing, or creating a legacy for your kids, HybridLandTech makes it possible, without drama.

Final Word

As against the myths you may have taken to heart, buying land in Nigeria is still one of the smartest financial decisions you can make. Land doesn’t lose value. It doesn’t get stolen. It appreciates with time.

Don’t let old stories or fear stop you from investing in your future. You can start small. You can start smart. But most importantly, start now.

And when you do, choose peace of mind. Choose clarity. Choose Hybrid Landtech.