Job Description
Job Summary
- We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Legal Counsel & Company Secretary with strong expertise in real estate law and corporate governance.
- The successful candidate will be responsible for managing all legal matters—primarily real estate transactions—and serving as Company Secretary, ensuring effective board administration, regulatory compliance, and adherence to corporate governance standards.
- The role also provides legal oversight across other business units.
Key Responsibilities
Real Estate Legal Advisory (Primary Focus):
- Provide legal guidance on land acquisition, property transactions, and development projects
- Conduct comprehensive title due diligence (ownership verification, encumbrances, zoning, excision, C of O, Governor’s Consent)
- Draft, review, and negotiate Deeds of Assignment, Sale Agreements, Joint Ventures, Leases, and MoUs
- Oversee title perfection and documentation processes
- Liaise with Land Registry, Surveyor-General’s Office, and relevant government authorities
- Manage real estate disputes, claims, and litigation
Company Secretarial & Corporate Governance (Board Role):
- Act as Company Secretary, advising the Board on corporate governance and statutory obligations
- Organize and coordinate Board Meetings, Committee Meetings, and Annual General Meetings (AGMs)
- Prepare and circulate board packs, meeting agendas, and notices
- Record accurate minutes of meetings and resolutions
- Maintain statutory registers and records in compliance with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) requirements
- Ensure timely filing of annual returns and statutory documents
Corporate & Commercial Legal Support:
- Provide legal services across business units
- Draft and review commercial contracts, partnership agreements, and service-level agreements
- Advise management on legal implications of business strategies and transactions
- Ensure contracts align with business objectives and regulatory requirements
Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management:
- Ensure compliance with relevant Nigerian laws and industry regulations across all business units
- Monitor legal and regulatory developments affecting real estate, finance, and agriculture sectors
- Identify and mitigate legal and operational risks
- Support internal compliance frameworks and corporate governance policies
Litigation & Dispute Resolution:
- Manage and coordinate litigation and dispute resolution processes
- Liaise with external solicitors, regulators, and enforcement agencies
- Represent the company in negotiations, mediation, and legal proceedings
- Develop strategies to minimize legal exposure and liabilities
Documentation & Records Management:
- Maintain custody of legal documents, title deeds, and corporate records
- Ensure proper documentation of all transactions and board decisions
- Develop and standardize legal and governance templates
Stakeholder & Regulatory Liaison:
- Interface with regulators, government agencies, and industry bodies
- Facilitate acquisition of licenses, permits, and approvals
- Support regulatory audits and compliance inspections
Requirements & Qualifications
- LL.B (Bachelor of Laws) and B.L (Nigerian Law School)
- Minimum of 5–8 years post-call experience
- Strong expertise in real estate law and property transactions (mandatory)
- Proven experience as a Company Secretary or in corporate governance roles
- Sound knowledge of Nigerian corporate law, real estate law, and regulatory frameworks
- Membership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is required
- Certification in Corporate Governance or Company Secretarial Practice is an added advantage
Key Competencies:
- Strong legal drafting and analytical skills
- Excellent knowledge of corporate governance practices
- High level of professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality
- Strong organizational and documentation skills
- Ability to engage effectively with senior executives and board members
- Strategic thinking with strong attention to detail.