In many African households, estate planning is rarely discussed. Death is treated as a taboo subject — something to pray against, not prepare for. But every week, real-life stories show the cost of avoiding the conversation: families torn apart, properties lost, and businesses ruined — all because someone passed away without a Will.

A father dies suddenly. His eldest son assumes control. His wife is locked out of their home. The daughters are told they have no claim. The business they built together crumbles. And the family? Broken.

This isn’t just someone else’s story — it could be yours if you don’t take estate planning seriously.

What Happens When You Die Without a Will?

When a person dies intestate — that is, without a valid will — their estate enters legal limbo. In Nigeria and many African countries, the law decides how your assets are distributed. But legal formulas don’t consider your personal relationships, promises, or context.

What if you wanted your wife to manage the family business?
What if you intended for one child to inherit your home and another your farmland? What if an elderly parent or younger sibling depends on you financially?

Without clear documentation, none of that is guaranteed. And what follows? Court cases, frozen accounts, inheritance disputes, and deep divisions. The emotional and financial toll can last for years — or even decades.

Estate Planning Isn’t Just for the Rich

Many people believe that estate planning is only for the wealthy. But that’s one of the biggest myths out there.

If you have anything of value — a home, savings/investment account, land, a pension, a business, or even children — you need a plan. Estate planning is about protecting your loved ones, not just your money.

Think of it this way:

• A teacher with ₦2 million in savings still needs to choose a beneficiary.

• A trader running a small business still needs a succession plan.

• A young couple building their first home still needs to decide what happens if one spouse passes away.

You don’t need to be rich to leave a mess. All it takes is no plan.

The Four Core Estate Planning Documents You Need

1. A Will
   Your will is the foundation of your estate plan. It details how your assets will be distributed, who will manage your estate, and who will care for your children (if they’re still minors).

2. A Trust (Optional but Recommended)
   A trust allows you to transfer assets privately and avoid the delay of probate. It’s especially useful for protecting property, business assets, or multi-generational wealth.

3. Power of Attorney
   If you become ill or incapacitated, this document allows someone you trust to act on your behalf — handling financial decisions or legal matters.

4. Letter of Instruction
   Though not a legal document, this is where you write down useful details: your bank accounts, passwords, business processes, or funeral wishes. It helps guide your loved ones during a difficult time.

Why Estate Planning Is About More Than Money

Estate planning is not just a legal responsibility — it’s an emotional and relational one. Families often unravel after the death of a loved one, not because of grief, but because of uncertainty and unspoken expectations.

• Children fight over property.

• Spouses feel betrayed.

• Business partners walk away.

Even families that once enjoyed peace can be torn apart by inheritance disputes. By planning ahead, you can prevent that.

Estate planning says:

• I’ve thought about your future.

• I want peace, not confusion, for you.

• I’ve taken responsibility for what I leave behind.

How to Start Your Estate Plan Today

You don’t need to figure it out alone. Start with these steps:

1. List everything you own — land, homes, savings, pensions, businesses, debts.

2. Decide who you want to benefit from your estate.

3. Speak to a trust advisor or estate planning professional to draft legal documents.

4. Keep everything in a safe, accessible place,  and tell someone you trust.

Even a basic plan is better than nothing.

The cost of not planning your estate is steep. Years of court cases, family rifts, lost opportunities, and broken dreams. But it’s preventable. You don’t need to be wealthy to protect what you’ve worked for. You just need to be intentional.

Don’t wait. Create a Will. Start your estate plan with an institutional executor like ARM Trustees. Give your family peace of mind. Because when you’re no longer here, your legacy should be love, not litigation.

Talk to us  today at 02012715002, or write to us at armtrustees-PT@arm.com.ng.