Lagos disburses ₦3.1bn compensation to over 300 property owners affected by infrastructure projects

 

By Barbara Nwaiwu

The Lagos State Government has presented more than ₦3.1 billion in compensation to over 300 property owners whose lands were acquired for strategic public infrastructure projects across the state, reaffirming its commitment to fairness, transparency and the protection of citizens’ rights.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu presented the compensation cheques to the beneficiaries on Monday at Alausa, Ikeja, alongside the Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, during a ceremony attended by members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers and community leaders.

Sanwo-Olu said the compensation reflected the government’s legal and moral obligation to fairly compensate residents whose properties were acquired for overriding public interest, adding that the exercise was carried out in line with the Land Use Act.

“Today’s exercise is not charity; it is justice. It is not a favour; it is the rightful entitlement of every verified project-affected person whose property was acquired for public purpose.”

The governor explained that all compensation claims underwent due process, including enumeration, professional valuation and verification of ownership documents, to ensure that only legitimate beneficiaries received payment.

“Behind every parcel of land is a family, a livelihood and a story. Development must always have a human face, and that is the principle guiding this administration.”

Sanwo-Olu said the acquired lands had been designated for roads, schools and other strategic public infrastructure aimed at improving the quality of life of Lagos residents, assuring beneficiaries that the properties would not be diverted for personal interests.

He acknowledged the sacrifices made by affected property owners, noting that although the projects would benefit millions of residents, government remained committed to treating those directly impacted with compassion, dignity and fairness.

“Infrastructure may benefit millions, but the government must never ignore those who bear the immediate impact. We acknowledge your sacrifice and appreciate your partnership in building a greater Lagos.”

The governor advised beneficiaries to invest the compensation prudently in ventures that would provide lasting benefits for their families rather than spend the funds on non-essential items.

He also urged them not to offer inducements to public officials, assuring them that officers of the Lagos State Lands Bureau were available to provide professional guidance on documentation and related matters without demanding gratification.

“Our officers are available to guide you professionally without demanding any gratification.”

In his goodwill message, the Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, commended affected residents for their patience and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to compassionate governance, noting that while infrastructure development sometimes required land acquisition, government would continue to ensure that affected property owners received appropriate compensation in accordance with the law.

The Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Lands Bureau, Mr Kamal Olowosago, described the exercise as another demonstration of the government’s commitment to fairness, accountability, transparency and the rule of law in land administration.

Olowosago recalled that the presentation followed an earlier compensation exercise held in December 2024, adding that it reflected the government’s consistency in fulfilling its statutory obligations.

“This exercise demonstrates our unwavering commitment to fairness, transparency, accountability and strict adherence to the rule of law in the administration of land resources.”

He said strategic infrastructure remained essential to economic growth and improved quality of life but stressed that development must always be balanced with justice, equity and respect for citizens’ rights.

The permanent secretary commended the affected property owners for their patience and cooperation throughout the acquisition and compensation processes.

“Your sacrifices are contributing to critical infrastructure that will improve the lives of millions of Lagos residents today and for generations to come.”

He also praised officials of the Lands Bureau, particularly staff of the acquisition, reconciliation and compensation departments, for ensuring a transparent and credible compensation process.