If you’ve ever tried to buy land in Nigeria, you already know how confusing the land measurement units can be. One agent will tell you the land is a full plot. Another will say it’s half plot. Someone else will mention 60 by 120. Then another person will say the land is one acre or one hectare. To make things worse, the sizes differ from state to state. This is why understanding plot sizes and land measurement units in Nigeria is extremely important because it helps you know exactly what you’re paying for, avoid being cheated, and make better investment decisions.

Let’s break everything down in this article.

Why Does Land Measurement Matter?

Land is one of the biggest investments you can make in Nigeria, but many buyers jump in without understanding the basic measurements. And the truth is, if you don’t know what the measurements mean, you can pay full-plot money for half a plot.

Understanding land measurement units in Nigeria also helps you compare prices correctly, verify what agents tell you, and plan the type of building you want.

What Is a Plot of Land in Nigeria?

A plot is simply a piece of land that is big enough for building. But the exact size is not the same everywhere.

In Nigeria, a plot can range between:

• 450 sqm (common in smaller estates)
• 500 sqm
• 600 sqm (the most popular size)
• 648 sqm   

There is no national standard, which is why it’s always important to ask the exact size in square meters before paying.

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Common Plot Dimensions in Nigeria

When agents say “60 by 120”, they are referring to feet, not meters. This is one of the most common ways land is measured in Nigeria.

Below are the popular dimensions buyers see:

• 50 ft x 100 ft → about 465 sqm
• 60 ft x 100 ft → about 557 sqm
• 60 ft x 120 ft → about 669 sqm
• 100 ft x 100 ft → about 929 sqm

These measurements help you understand the shape and buildability of the land (for example, corner pieces or rectangular plots).

What Is a Square Meter (sqm)?

A square meter is the standard unit used in modern real estate. It is the most accurate and universal measurement for land.

1 square meter = the size of a small tile box (1 meter by 1 meter).

Source: Tilezz. Land measurement in Nigeria and Plot sizes 1m by 1m

Because plot sizes vary by state, square meters are the safest way to confirm true land size.

What Is an Acre in Nigeria?

An acre is a bigger land unit used for large developments.

1 acre = 4,046 sqm

1 acre = 6 plots (if each plot is 664 sqm on average)

Developers and investors use acres when buying for estates, farming, or long-term development.

What Is a Hectare?

A hectare is even larger than an acre.

1 hectare = 10,000 sqm

1 hectare = 2.47 acres

1 hectare = 15 plots (on average)

Hectares are used for very large residential estates, industrial layouts, or commercial developments.

Why Plot Sizes Differ Across Nigeria

Plot sizes vary because states set their own planning regulations.

Here’s a simple overview:

• Lagos – 600–660 sqm (common)
• Abuja – 750 sqm and above (due to planning standards)
• Port Harcourt – 500–900 sqm
• Ibadan – 500–600 sqm
• Estate developments nationwide – 300, 450, and 500 sqm

Some estates now offer 300 sqm or 250 sqm plots to make homeownership more affordable.

Half Plot, Full Plot, and Other Common Terms

You’ll also hear these phrases:

• Full Plot → The complete land size (e.g., 600 sqm)
• Half Plot → 300 sqm
• Corner Piece → A plot located at a road intersection
• Dry Land → A land that doesn’t flood
• Wet Land → A marshy or swampy area
• Setback → The required space you must leave before building

Knowing these terms helps you understand exactly what you’re being offered.

How to Verify Land Size Before Buying

Because land size is often misrepresented, here’s what you should do:

• Ask for the survey plan — the exact size is written in sqm.
• Visit the land physically with a surveyor.
• Confirm the boundaries and beacons.
• Double-check if the land is a full plot or a reduced plot.

Never rely on word of mouth.

Which Plot Size Should You Buy?

It depends on your goal.

• 300 sqm – enough for a 3-bedroom bungalow
• 450–500 sqm – perfect for duplexes
• 600–660 sqm – ideal for full-family homes with parking
• 1000 sqm and above – luxury or multi-unit development

Understanding plot sizes and land measurement units in Nigeria helps you plan your building and your investment returns better.

Conclusion

Buying land in Nigeria doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you understand the different land measurement units — plots, acres, hectares, square meters — you can negotiate confidently and avoid problems.

Every serious buyer, realtor, or investor should always ask one question before paying:

“What is the exact size of this land in square meters?”

That one question can save you millions.