Buying and owning property in Kano as a foreigner

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Nigeria Property Pack

Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Nigeria Property Pack

Who is the author of this content?

THE AFRICANVESTOR

A team specialized in real estate investing in African countries

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Kano. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At TheAfricanvestor, we explore the Nigerian real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Kano, Lagos, and Abuja. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

Can foreigners legally buy and own property in Kano or are there restrictions compared to locals?

Foreigners can legally buy and own property in Kano, but only through leasehold arrangements with strict government approval requirements.

Nigerian law prohibits direct freehold land ownership for non-citizens, meaning foreigners can only acquire leasehold rights typically lasting 25 years, though some arrangements extend up to 99 years. Every foreign property transaction requires a Certificate of Occupancy and mandatory Governor's Consent, adding bureaucratic layers that locals often avoid.

Local Nigerian citizens enjoy more straightforward property rights, including the ability to own freehold titles in many cases and face fewer administrative hurdles during the purchase process. The Governor's Consent requirement for foreigners serves as both a regulatory mechanism and revenue source for state governments, with Kano State maintaining particularly strict oversight of foreign property acquisitions.

As of September 2025, these restrictions reflect Nigeria's broader policy of limiting foreign control over land resources while still permitting foreign investment in real estate development and commercial projects.

Do different nationalities face different rules or limitations when buying property in Kano?

All foreign nationalities face similar legal requirements when buying property in Kano, with no explicit discrimination based on country of origin.

However, state governors retain discretionary power to impose individual procedures and requirements, which can create variations in the approval process depending on diplomatic relations or bilateral agreements. Some nationalities may experience smoother processes due to existing business partnerships or diplomatic ties between Nigeria and their home countries.

Citizens from Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) countries may encounter slightly more favorable treatment in practice, though the legal framework remains consistent across all nationalities. The Governor's Consent process allows for case-by-case evaluation, meaning that factors like investment size, business purpose, or local partnerships can influence approval outcomes regardless of nationality.

It's something we develop in our Nigeria property pack.

What type of residency or visa status is required to buy and keep property as a foreigner?

No specific residency status or visa is required to buy property in Kano as a foreigner, but holding residency or a business visa is advisable for long-term ownership management.

Property ownership and immigration status operate under separate legal frameworks in Nigeria, meaning you can purchase real estate without being a resident. However, maintaining your investment often requires periodic visits for property management, tax compliance, and lease renewal processes, making residency status practically beneficial.

Foreign investors typically hold business visas or work permits to facilitate property-related activities, while some obtain temporary residence permits to simplify banking and legal procedures. Property ownership does not grant any immigration benefits or pathway to Nigerian citizenship, contrary to citizenship-by-investment programs available in other countries.

As of September 2025, the Nigerian Immigration Service maintains strict separation between property rights and residency privileges, requiring separate applications and approvals for each status.

Do I need to be physically present in Nigeria during the property purchase process or can it be handled remotely?

Physical presence in Nigeria is not mandatory for property purchases, as the entire process can be handled remotely through power of attorney and local representatives.

Remote buyers typically execute a power of attorney document at a Nigerian consulate in their home country, authorizing a local lawyer or agent to act on their behalf throughout the transaction. This representative can negotiate terms, sign documents, submit applications for Governor's Consent, and complete the property registration process.

However, in-person visits are strongly recommended for property inspection, due diligence verification, and building relationships with local professionals who will manage your investment long-term. Many foreign buyers schedule a single trip to Nigeria to view properties, meet their legal team, and finalize documentation before returning home.

Video calls and virtual property tours have become increasingly common, especially since 2020, allowing buyers to conduct thorough remote inspections before committing to purchase.

What is the exact step-by-step process for buying property in Kano as a foreigner, and which documents are required?

The property purchase process for foreigners in Kano follows a structured seven-step procedure with specific documentation requirements at each stage.

1. **Engage a Local Expert (Agent/Lawyer)** - Begin with market research and due diligence on target properties2. **Initial Offer and Agreement** - Negotiate purchase terms and draft a preliminary sales agreement3. **Due Diligence** - Verify property title, check for encumbrances, and confirm seller's legal right to sell4. **Governor's Consent Application** - Submit formal application to Kano State Governor for approval5. **Certificate of Occupancy Processing** - Obtain C of O evidencing government-sanctioned leasehold rights6. **Payment of Fees & Taxes** - Settle stamp duties, registration fees, and other applicable costs7. **Registration** - Complete transfer registration at the Land Registry for legal protection

Essential documents include your passport for identity verification, power of attorney if acting remotely, sales agreement outlining purchase terms, Certificate of Occupancy establishing leasehold rights, Governor's Consent letter providing state approval, and payment receipts for all fees and taxes.

The entire process typically takes 3-6 months depending on government processing speeds and document preparation efficiency.

Is it mandatory to hire a lawyer or notary, and what role do they play in verifying ownership and contracts?

Hiring a lawyer is strongly advised and often mandatory for foreigners purchasing property in Kano, as they provide essential legal protection and navigate complex regulatory requirements.

Property lawyers verify ownership through title searches, ensure all documents are genuine and legally binding, manage government approval applications including Governor's Consent, and register transactions at the appropriate land registry offices. They also conduct comprehensive due diligence to uncover potential encumbrances, liens, or competing claims on the property.

Notaries may be required for document authentication, particularly for power of attorney arrangements and international document validation. The lawyer acts as your primary interface with government agencies, reducing the risk of procedural errors that could invalidate your purchase or delay completion.

Legal fees typically run around 5% of the sale price but are negotiable based on transaction complexity and property value. Given the frequency of property fraud in Nigeria, professional legal representation serves as essential insurance against costly mistakes.

What taxes, fees, and hidden costs should I expect when purchasing and later reselling property in Kano?

Total acquisition costs for foreign property buyers in Kano typically range from 3.5% to 5% of the property value, with multiple fees and taxes applied throughout the process.

Fee Type	Percentage of Property Value	Description
Governor's Consent Fee	~1.5%	Mandatory state approval for foreign ownership
Stamp Duty	1-2%	Federal tax on property transactions
Registration Fees	~0.5%	Land registry documentation costs
Legal Fees	~5%	Lawyer representation (negotiable)
Agent Commission	2-5%	Real estate agent services
Survey & Valuation	0.5-1%	Property assessment and boundary verification
Miscellaneous Costs	0.5-1%	Document processing, travel, administrative fees

Hidden costs often include multiple government office visits, document processing delays requiring additional payments, and potential "facilitation fees" to expedite approvals. Resale transactions involve similar tax structures plus potential capital gains tax depending on holding period and profit margins.

Are mortgages available to foreigners, and if so, what banks offer them, at what interest rates, and under what conditions?

Mortgages are rarely available to foreigners in Nigeria, with most local banks declining to finance non-resident property purchases due to regulatory restrictions and risk management policies.

In exceptional cases, foreign-owned companies registered in Nigeria may secure property-backed loans, but terms are extremely stringent with interest rates typically ranging from 18% to 25% annually. Major Nigerian banks like First Bank, Guaranty Trust Bank, and United Bank for Africa occasionally consider applications from foreigners with substantial local business presence and verifiable income sources.

Required conditions usually include a minimum 30-40% down payment, proof of stable income in Nigeria or internationally, local business registration, and comprehensive collateral beyond the property itself. The loan-to-value ratios rarely exceed 60% for foreign applicants, compared to 80-90% available to Nigerian citizens.

Most foreign buyers finance purchases through cash payments, overseas mortgages secured against home country assets, or private lending arrangements with local partners.

It's something we develop in our Nigeria property pack.

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Nigeria versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

Which neighborhoods in Kano are most popular with foreigners and expats, and why?

Nassarawa GRA (Government Reserved Area) stands as the most popular neighborhood for foreigners and expats in Kano, offering the highest security standards and best infrastructure in the city.

This area attracts international residents due to its gated compounds, reliable electricity and water supply, proximity to international schools and healthcare facilities, and established expat community presence. Properties in Nassarawa GRA feature modern amenities, adequate parking, and 24-hour security services that meet international living standards.

Bompai ranks as the second most popular choice, particularly favored by business professionals and diplomats due to its proximity to commercial zones, government offices, and the airport. The neighborhood offers good road networks, shopping centers, and restaurant options that cater to international tastes.

Badawa and parts of Tarauni are emerging as affordable alternatives for expats, offering improving infrastructure and lower property costs while maintaining reasonable security standards and access to city amenities.

Which areas of Kano show the best prospects for living quality, rental demand, and capital appreciation, based on the latest liveability index, gross rental yields, tourism numbers, and growth forecasts?

Nassarawa GRA offers the best combination of living quality and rental demand, with gross rental yields reaching 6-8% for high-end properties and the strongest capital appreciation prospects in Kano.

The area benefits from consistent demand from expatriate professionals, diplomats, and wealthy Nigerian returnees, creating a stable rental market with premium pricing power. Infrastructure developments including road improvements and utility upgrades continue to enhance property values, with capital appreciation averaging 3-5% annually since 2020.

Bompai shows strong rental demand from business travelers and mid-level expats, offering gross rental yields of 4-6% with moderate capital appreciation potential. The neighborhood's proximity to Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport and major commercial centers supports steady rental income streams.

Emerging areas like Badawa and Tarauni present the highest growth potential for capital appreciation, though with higher risk profiles. These neighborhoods benefit from ongoing infrastructure projects and urban expansion, potentially offering 8-12% annual capital gains for early investors willing to accept lower current rental yields of 3-4%.

What is the current breakdown of property prices across Kano and surrounding regions, and how do they compare?

Property prices in Kano vary dramatically by neighborhood, with premium areas commanding prices 10-20 times higher than peripheral suburbs as of September 2025.

Area	Price Range (Naira)	USD Equivalent
Nassarawa GRA (Premium)	₦40m - ₦250m+	$33k - $210k+
Bompai (Mid-Range)	₦25m - ₦120m	$21k - $100k
Badawa/Tarauni	₦15m - ₦60m	$12k - $50k
Peripheral Suburbs	₦6m - ₦30m	$5k - $25k
Surrounding Rural Areas	₦2m - ₦15m	$1.7k - $12k

Surrounding regions outside Kano city offer significantly cheaper options, with undeveloped land available for ₦2-5 million and basic housing starting around ₦6-10 million. These areas lack infrastructure, security, and amenities but present opportunities for long-term development plays.

Price variations reflect infrastructure quality, security levels, and proximity to business centers, with the most expensive properties featuring modern construction, reliable utilities, and comprehensive security systems.

What are the most common mistakes and pitfalls foreigners make when buying property in Kano, and how can they be avoided?

The most common and costly mistake foreigners make is skipping proper due diligence and legal representation, leading to fraud, title disputes, or invalid transactions.

1. **Inadequate Due Diligence** - Failing to verify property titles, seller credentials, and existing encumbrances through comprehensive legal searches2. **Governor's Consent Oversight** - Proceeding without securing mandatory state approval, rendering the entire transaction legally invalid3. **Leasehold Misunderstanding** - Assuming foreign ownership rights are equivalent to freehold titles and neglecting renewal requirements4. **Cost Underestimation** - Budgeting only for property price while ignoring 3.5-5% acquisition costs and ongoing fees5. **Immigration Assumptions** - Believing property purchase provides residency or citizenship benefits when these systems operate independently

These pitfalls can be completely avoided through engaging experienced local lawyers from the outset, conducting thorough property and seller verification, budgeting comprehensively for all costs and fees, understanding leasehold limitations and renewal processes, and maintaining realistic expectations about immigration benefits.

Working with reputable local professionals and allowing adequate time for proper legal procedures eliminates most risks associated with foreign property investment in Kano.

It's something we develop in our Nigeria property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

1. Mondaq - Acquiring Real Estate in Nigeria
2. TheAfricanvestor - Foreigners Own Land Nigeria
3. Private Property Nigeria - Can Foreigners Buy Land
4. DLA Piper Real World Nigeria
5. TheAfricanvestor - Nigeria Real Estate Foreigner
6. Trusted Advisors Law - Real Estate Acquisition
7. Propsult - Property Ownership for Foreigners
8. Arab MLS - Foreigners Buy Property Nigeria
9. LinkedIn - Guide Buying Property Nigeria
10. African Land - Property Ownership Rules