What Is a Deed of Assignment in Nigerian Property Law?

When you buy land or property in Nigeria, the document that officially transfers ownership from the seller to you is called a Deed of Assignment. Understanding this document is essential before any property purchase.

What It Does

A Deed of Assignment transfers the seller's interest in the land (their title) to you, the buyer. Once it is properly executed, stamped by the stamp duty office, and registered at the relevant land registry, you become the legal owner of record.

Key Contents of a Deed of Assignment

• **Names of parties** — The assignor (seller) and assignee (buyer)
• **Property description** — Exact location, dimensions, and survey plan reference
• **Consideration** — The agreed purchase price
• **Terms and conditions** — Any conditions attached to the transfer
• **Covenants** — Assurances from the seller about the title
• **Date of execution** — When the document was signed
• **Signatures and witnesses** — Executed before witnesses

The Process After Signing

1. **Stamping** — The Deed must be taken to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) or state equivalent and stamped (stamp duty paid) within 30 days of execution. 2. **Governor's Consent** — Under the Land Use Act, the Governor's Consent is required for any transfer of a leasehold interest. This process typically takes several months and involves a fee. 3. **Registration** — The stamped, consented deed is registered at the state land registry. This creates a public record of the transfer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Accepting a deed that has not been stamped or registered
• Purchasing without a properly executed deed (verbal agreements offer no protection)
• Not obtaining Governor's Consent (the transfer is legally incomplete without it)
• Allowing the seller's lawyer alone to draft the deed without your own legal review

At AGAL Homes & Properties, we ensure every plot purchase is supported with a properly executed, stamped, and registerable Deed of Assignment. Our team will guide you through the full process.