Plots, Acres & Hectares: A Simple Guide to Understanding Land Measurements in Nigeria

Anyone looking to buy or sell property in Nigeria must have a good understanding of land measurements. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, knowing the size of the land you’re dealing with can significantly impact your decisions and investments.

For many Nigerians, however, the terms “plots,” “acres,” and “hectares” can be confusing. This knowledge gap leads to misunderstandings and potential financial pitfalls. This guide will clarify these measurements and help you navigate the complexities of land sizes in Nigeria.

The Importance of Land Measurements

You probably have seen many property advertisements that read, “Buy a 600-square-meter land for 2 million Naira at xyz location,” and you’re wondering how large that can be.

Well, to start with, you must understand that no amount of land can be bought or sold without first accurately measuring it. Land measurements determine not only the value of the property but also its potential use—be it residential, commercial, or agricultural. Just as you have seen in the above advertisement description, the land was measured (as 600 square meters), and the value of the land was quoted.

A large plot or area of land may seem appealing at first glance, but if it’s measured incorrectly, you could end up overpaying or purchasing less land than you intended.

This is exactly why you need to understand how land is measured, as this knowledge can help you make well-informed decisions and avoid disputes down the line.

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Metric Systems Used in Nigeria

In Nigeria, two primary systems of land measurement are commonly used: the metric system and the imperial system.

1. Metric System: This includes measurements such as hectares and square meters. The metric system is widely adopted in Nigeria for official land transactions and documentation.

A hectare is equivalent to 10,000 square meters, or about 2.47 acres. It is commonly used for larger plots of land, such as farms and estates.

On the other hand, square meters is a unit that is often used for smaller plots, especially in urban areas where residential properties are common. You’ll often find seasoned professionals and well-educated individuals using this land measurement system in their conversations.

2. Imperial System: This includes measurements such as acres and feet. An acre is defined as 4,046 square meters (or 43,560 sq ft). It is often used in rural settings or when discussing larger tracts of land.

Feet, on the other hand, is a unit typically used to describe smaller plots or dimensions of buildings. Tradesmen, artisans and omo-niles understand this system of land measurements very well.

The Confusion Surrounding Land Measurements

The confusion that surrounds land measurements in Nigeria is due to the variations in land sizes. This variation can be attributed to factors such as the location of the land, ownership, and the specific circumstances that may surround a transaction.

Also, many Nigerians find themselves confused by these different measurement systems. The lack of standardization across various regions can lead to misunderstandings about what constitutes a “standard” plot of land or more.

A plot is a general term used to refer to a section of land that has been divided in a specific area by developers or the government for purposes such as construction or agriculture.

For example, a plot in Lagos might measure 60 x 120 feet, while in other regions it could be 100 x 50 feet. This inconsistency can create challenges when negotiating prices or understanding the true value of a property.

Knowing these measurements is crucial in order to ensure that you get what you pay for. Also, it helps you understand how much land you need based on your intended use.

For instance, if you’re planning to build a house or develop a commercial property, knowing whether you’re dealing with acres or hectares can significantly affect your planning and budgeting.

Key Terms Related to Land Measurements

The following are important terms used when having a conversation around land measurements: 

Plot

A plot is one of the most common units of land measurement in Nigeria, typically measuring around 600 to 1,200 square meters depending on the region. In urban areas like Lagos, a standard plot is approximately measured as 18 meters by 36 meters (i.e., 60 x 120 feet).

Acre

As mentioned earlier, an acre equals about 4,046 square meters (43,560 sq ft). It is roughly the size of a standard football field and is a commonly used unit of measurement among land sellers.

In many parts of Nigeria, particularly rural areas, an acre may be subdivided into several plots. It is made up of six plots, each measuring 60 by 120 feet.

Hectare

A hectare measures 10,000 square meters (i.e., 100 meters by 100 meters) or 328 ft x 328 ft. This makes it suitable for larger parcels of land, such as farms or estates. It is approximately two and a half acres, which comprises 15 plots.

Square Meter (sqm): This is the basic unit of area measurement in the metric system and is essential for calculating smaller plots of land.

Conclusion

If you want to successfully navigate the real estate market in Nigeria, you need to have a clear understanding of this land measurement system. When you familiarize yourself with these terms and their implications, you can make more informed decisions when buying or selling property. Furthermore, it will save you time, money, and potential headaches down the line.

When next you consider a property transaction in Nigeria, you can refer to this article to guide your decisions.