22/06/2026
GOVERNOR'S CONSENT: WHAT DOES IT REALLY MEAN?
One of the most misunderstood concepts in Nigerian property law is Governor's Consent.
Many people hear the term but do not understand why it matters.
Under the Land Use Act, land in a state is vested in the Governor, who holds it in trust for the people. As a result, when a holder of a statutory right of occupancy wants to transfer his interest to another person, the Governor's Consent may be required.
Why is this important?
Imagine Mr. A has a valid Certificate of Occupancy and sells the property to Mr. B.
Many people assume ownership automatically transfers upon payment and ex*****on of a Deed of Assignment.
While those steps are important, the transaction may remain incomplete if the required consent is not obtained.
Governor's Consent serves several purposes:
• It provides official recognition of the transfer.
• It helps maintain accurate land records.
• It reduces uncertainty regarding ownership.
• It protects future transactions involving the property.
A buyer who neglects this step may encounter difficulties when attempting to sell the property later, use it as collateral, or perfect title.
Property acquisition should not end with payment.
The legal transfer process matters just as much.
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