What is C-of-O Redefined?
C-of-O Redefined is an initiative by the Oyo State Government to enable all property owners (commercial, residential, agricultural, industrial, and undeveloped land) to obtain their title documents within a short period. The goal of the government is to help property owners regularize the legal status and documentation of their properties while providing enumeration data for proper planning, including the provision of roads, schools, hospitals, and other essential services.
Under this scheme, owners of eligible properties without a title or required approval in Oyo State will have the opportunity to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) or other title documents. Penalties and fines have been waived, documentation requirements relaxed, and fees discounted to encourage as many property owners as possible to benefit from the project.
Why was this program introduced?
Records show that the majority of landed properties in Oyo State lack registered titles, exposing property holders to various risks, such as defective transfers to heirs and encroachments.
Additionally, the absence of proper title documents depresses the true value of the property, reducing its viability in the financial sector as a credit-worthy asset.
As a result of lacking proper title documents:
- Property owners face difficulties using their properties as collateral for financial transactions or transferring them to third parties.
- Most properties are undervalued, regressing the growth of Oyo State’s property market. This also limits stakeholders’ access to necessary information and reduces the market’s vibrancy.
- The lack of accurate data on the number of properties and their uses hinders proper planning and the provision of essential social amenities by the government.
What are the benefits of participating in this program?
- You will obtain documentation that gives you legal title to your property.
- You will enjoy a significant discount, and your property details will be stored in a digital database for easy confirmation and transfer.
- The value of your property will increase, making it more marketable, as buyers can confidently engage in transactions knowing the correct title documentation is available.
- Properties with proper legal status can be used as collateral for bank loans and other business transactions.
- Ownership disputes will be minimized, and in the event of death, heirs are guaranteed valid inheritance.
- Property-related fraud and issues with Omo Oniles (land-grabbers) will be reduced.
- Your area will benefit from the Oyo State Government’s urban renewal policies, including improvements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
How do I apply for C-of-O Redefined?
Application forms are available for a fixed fee of ₦10,000, payable via the following methods or locations:
- The Ministry of Land, Housing, and Urban Development, as well as all zonal offices of the Ministry in every Local Government.
- Partner banks, including First Bank, Sterling Bank, UBA, and Wema Bank.
- OYBIR offices across the State.
- Online at http://pay.oyostate.gov.ng.
Are all properties eligible for title documents from the State Government?
Most properties will qualify. However, approval will not be granted for properties:
- Under PHCN high-tension cables.
- Built on designated acquisitions, such as agricultural lands.
- Occupying the “right-of-way” of the NNPC pipeline.
- Located on road, water body, or gully setbacks.
- In floodplains or areas prone to subsidence.
- Deemed substandard or defective.
- Subject to legal disputes.
Who can apply?
The program is open to all property owners, including commercial, residential, agricultural, industrial, and undeveloped lands. This includes rightful legal heirs of deceased property owners.
What documents are required for the application?
You will need to submit all relevant documents that prove ownership, including:
- Land Purchase Agreement
- Deed of Gift or Sublease
- Payment Receipts
- Registered Survey Plan
- Applicant’s Passport Photograph
- Photograph of the Property
- Affidavit (where applicable)
- CAC Registration Document and Company Seal/Stamp (for commercial properties)
What is the application process, and how long will it take?
Upon submitting your completed application form, you will receive a demand notice detailing the fees required to process your application. After payment, the State Government will publish your application in national newspapers to allow for any objections. This publication process lasts 21 days from the date of publication. You will be notified of the publication date and informed if any objections are raised. If no objections arise, an inspection of your property will be scheduled with the State’s surveyors, town planners, and land officers within seven days after the publication period ends. Once approved, your C-of-O will be processed, and you will be notified when it is ready for collection.
How much will it cost?
Refer to the cost details in the table below.
Can I pay in installments?
Yes, payments can be made in up to three installments:
- The initial deposit of 50% is due upon submission of your application.
- The second installment is due 21 days after submission.
- The final installment is payable upon notification that your C-of-O is ready for collection.
What happens if I don’t participate in the C-of-O Redefined Scheme?
Your property will remain at risk due to the absence of official title documents. The C-of-O Redefined Scheme is a generous initiative by the Oyo State Government, offering property owners a unique opportunity to regularize their property status. It is strongly advised to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Can property owners living abroad apply?
Yes, property owners living abroad can apply as long as they are the bona fide owners of the property. Applications can be submitted online at www.lands.oyostate.gov.ng.
Is there a difference between C-of-O Redefined, Homeowners Charter C-of-O, and the conventional C-of-O?
No, the C-of-O obtained under the C-of-O Redefined Scheme is the same as the Homeowners’ Charter C-of-O and the conventional C-of-O obtained through the traditional application process.
How do I pay online?
- Visit http://pay.oyostate.gov.ng.
- Enter your payment code, name, email address, and phone number.
- Confirm your details and proceed to payment.
Payment methods include:
- Card Payment: Select your preferred provider and card type (MasterCard, Visa, or Verve).
- Bank Transfer: The platform will generate a dedicated OYSG Wema Bank account number for your bill. Transfer the amount using your bank’s app. A payment confirmation will be sent once the payment is received.
OYSG – C of O Redefined & within 60 days
OYSG – Price Plan
