In real estate transactions across Ibadan, Oyo State, and Nigeria at large, one of the most misunderstood aspects is the difference between a Land Agreement and a Deed of Assignment.
Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they are not the same. Knowing the difference can save you from legal mistakes and ensure you properly secure your property.
🧾 What Is a Land Agreement?
A Land Agreement is a general term used to describe any written agreement concerning the sale or transfer of land. It could be informal or formal depending on how it is prepared, and may include:
- A written agreement between buyer and seller
- A basic contract drafted by an agent
- Preliminary documents before the final legal process
⚠️ A Land Agreement is not sufficient as legal proof of ownership, especially for government-recognized title perfection.
📜 What Is a Deed of Assignment?
A Deed of Assignment is a specific legal document that transfers full ownership of a property from the seller (assignor) to the buyer (assignee). It is a recognized instrument of title and is a requirement for applying for Governor’s Consent or Certificate of Occupancy (CofO).
Key Features of a Deed of Assignment:
- Drafted by a legal practitioner
- Contains detailed history of ownership (chain of title)
- Clearly describes the property with coordinates or survey plan
- Must be signed, stamped, and registered at the Lands Registry
✅ This is the official and enforceable document used in Nigerian law to prove ownership after a sale.
⚖️ Key Differences Between Land Agreement and Deed of Assignment
| Feature | Land Agreement | Deed of Assignment |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A general written agreement over land matters | A legal title document transferring full ownership |
| Legal Status | May or may not be enforceable | Legally recognized in courts and land registries |
| Prepared by | Sometimes by non-lawyers or agents | Must be drafted by a registered legal practitioner |
| Usable for Title Perfection | ❌ Not sufficient for Governor’s Consent or CofO | ✅ Essential for Governor’s Consent and CofO |
| Registration | Optional (usually not registered) | Must be stamped and registered at the Lands Registry |
| Ownership Proof | Weak – Can be disputed | Strong – Recognized proof of land transfer |
✅ Why You Must Prioritize Deed of Assignment Over Informal Land Agreements
- Legal Security: Without a deed, your land transaction may be challenged in court.
- Title Perfection: Only a deed allows you to move forward with CofO or Governor’s Consent.
- Investment Protection: Registered deeds protect your investment for resale, inheritance, or development.
🏢 How Taiwo Salam & Co. Properties Ltd Can Help
We are a reputable real estate and property documentation firm in Ibadan known for securing legal, safe, and traceable land deals.
Our Services Include:
- Preparation and registration of Deed of Assignment
- Legal review and correction of informal Land Agreements
- Title verification to avoid disputes
- End-to-end guidance from land inspection to document perfection
With us, you don’t just get land — you get legal ownership that stands the test of time.
📞 Contact Us Today
Taiwo Salam & Co. Properties Ltd
📍 Office: Block U4, Joke Plaza, Bodija, Ibadan
📞 Phone/WhatsApp: 08065558146
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.taiwosalamandco.com
Don’t rely on vague land agreements. Get a properly registered Deed of Assignment and sleep with peace of mind.
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