A Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)is a crucial legal document that establishes the right of an individual or entity to possess and utilize a piece of land in Nigeria. This document plays a pivotal role in the country’s land tenure system, and there are various types of Certificates of Occupancy, each with its unique features and implications.
1. Statutory Right of Occupancy:
The Statutory Right of Occupancy is one of the most common types of C of O in Nigeria. It is issued under the provisions of the Land Use Act of 1978, which vests all lands in the country in the government. Individuals or entities seeking to acquire land must apply for this type of C of O. The government grants the statutory right of occupancy for a specified term, typically 99 years, and the landholder is expected to comply with the terms and conditions outlined in the document.
