How do I verify a property seller in Nigeria?

Buying · 5 min read

How to verify a property seller

Written by CribCheck, reviewed by the CribCheck inspection team. Last reviewed 18 September 2026.

Part of Documents to check before buying property in Nigeria

Short answer

Confirm the seller is the registered holder or lawfully authorised to sell: check identification against the title document, confirm a company's registration and board authority, ask for a power of attorney or letters of administration where an agent or family sells, and confirm with neighbours and the community who has been in possession.

Individual seller

Photo ID matching the name on the title exactly.
Explanation of any name change, with supporting document.
Spousal or co-owner consent where the property is jointly held.

Family or estate

Letters of administration or probate where the owner has died.
Consent of all principal members where family land is sold.
A clear explanation of who receives the money and why.

Company or agent

Company registration details and a board resolution authorising the sale.
A registered power of attorney where an agent signs.
Company account details matching the registered name.

On the ground

Ask neighbours, the caretaker and the community who has occupied and maintained the property. Possession that contradicts the paperwork is the earliest warning you will get.

General information, not legal advice. Title and land matters vary by state and carry real financial risk — instruct a property lawyer before you pay anything.

What to do next

Check this home with CribCheck while you are still there. Record what you see, get a condition score with indicative repair costs, and keep it to compare against other homes.

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