Land surveying may look like a routine technical task from the outside, just coordinates, boundaries, and maps. But in reality, it’s far deeper than that, especially here in Nigeria, where land wahala is no joke. Behind every survey request is someone planning a home, launching a business, or investing their hard-earned money into a future. That’s why to us, land surveying is more than just…
When we build a home or develop land, we often think of space, budget, or the nearest access road. But one critical concept that many ignore or simply don’t understand is Right of Way (RoW) and setback regulations. The recent demolitions in Ikota, Lagos, are a painful but important reminder of why these rules exist.What Is Right of Way and Setback? These rules are not…
A recent discussion with a fellow surveyor in Lagos raised a critical concern—many professionals still rely on outdated tools such as handheld GPS devices, measuring tapes, and compass for cadastral surveys. These traditional tools expose surveyors and property owners to significant risks, including legal disputes, financial losses, and reputational damage. Surprisingly, our discussion made me realize that many surveyors might be unaware of the significant…
JULY 2024 REAL ESTATE NEWS ARTICLE PUNCH NEWSPAPER (JULY 1, 2024) Headline: Declare State of Emergency on Geographical Mapping, Surveyors Tell Govt. The President of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, Dr. Matthew Ibitoye, has called for a state of emergency on Nigeria’s geographical mapping. Speaking at the 58th annual general meeting in Edo State, Dr. Ibitoye emphasized that comprehensive mapping is crucial for national development…
If you are investing in real estate in Lagos or anywhere in Nigeria, please attention. These are some of the things people do and regret later. 1) Believe everything the seller says 2) Dont involve a surveyor and a lawyer 3) Don’t check whether the property is within the setback of a closeby canal, high tension, or other public utility. 4) Don’t ask about the…
In land surveying, we always say that each assignment presents its unique challenges and revelations. Recently, we carried out a land survey in the vibrant locale of Odorangunshi Eredo, Epe. What transpired during this four-hour endeavor not only encapsulates the essence of our profession but also underscored the importance of precision in our craft while illuminating the intricacies of land ownership, and governmental regulations/restrictions. More…
PUNCH NEWSPAPER (6TH NOVEMBER) Headline: Follow Due Process in Building Demolition, Stakeholders Tell Govt. Stakeholders in the construction industry have urged the government to adhere to due process before demolishing buildings. At an advocacy program organized by the Building Collapse Prevention Guild and the Nigerian Bar Association in Lagos, legal experts emphasized the importance of following the law in building demolitions. Senior Advocate of Nigeria,…
LIST OF “OMONILE” TRICKS YOU SHOULD KNOW – PART 2Recently, we had a few people who acquired their land directly from “omonile” (family land owners) and this is the second part of the tricks list which was created as a result of their “unnecessary” challenges. 1 They try to sell you land outside the area that has a good title(C of O, Excision, Governors Consent…
People often ask me to use the coordinates picked on a property they are interested in to verify the true owner at Alausa. They are always surprised and disappointed when I say I can’t verify the ownership of a property at Alausa except the property has a registered deed/existing title. The truth is, in most cases, if you take the coordinates of a land to…
Last month, I had two separate discussions with 2 of my realtor friends about Court Judgment in property transactions. The first one called me and said he had a client who wanted to purchase a parcel of land in Epe and the client said he was told by the seller that the title the land has is court judgment. He was confused and wanted to…
