Cadastral surveys in Nigeria: what a survey plan is and when you need one
Geomarins Integrated Limited ·
A practical guide to cadastral surveys and survey plans in Nigeria and Lagos: what they show, when you need one, and how they support land titles and C of O.
If you are buying land, building on it or applying for a title in Nigeria, you will be asked for a survey plan. The survey plan comes from a cadastral survey. This guide explains what both are and why they matter.
What is a cadastral survey?
A cadastral survey establishes and records the boundaries of a parcel of land. The surveyor finds or places boundary beacons at the corners, measures their exact positions tied to the national survey control network, and computes the bearings, distances and area of the parcel.
What a survey plan shows
- The boundaries of the land, drawn to scale
- The beacon numbers at each corner
- Bearings and distances along each boundary
- The area of the land
- The location, with reference to roads and neighbouring parcels
- The name of the owner and the surveyor's signature and seal
Who can prepare it
In Nigeria, a survey plan must be prepared and signed by a surveyor registered with the Surveyors Council of Nigeria (SURCON). The plan is lodged with the office of the Surveyor-General of the state where the land is located, which records it and gives it a reference number.
When you need one
- Applying for a Certificate of Occupancy or other title document
- Registering a land purchase or a deed of assignment
- Subdividing land into plots or combining plots
- Settling a boundary dispute with a neighbour
- Applying for building approval
- Using land as security for a loan
Charting in Lagos
In Lagos State, a survey plan is commonly charted by the Surveyor-General's office to show whether the land is free from government acquisition, committed to a scheme or affected by a right of way. Charting before buying land helps protect a buyer from acquiring land that cannot be titled.
Tips for land buyers
- Ask for the seller's survey plan and check it with the state survey office
- Visit the land with a surveyor to confirm the beacons on the ground match the plan
- Check for government acquisition before paying
- Make sure any new survey is in your name before applying for title
Why accuracy matters
Your land documents rest on the survey plan for as long as you own the land. An accurate survey, properly tied to national control and backed by field records, protects you against disputes and costly problems later.