Sanwo-Olu Presents N3.1bn Compensation to Property Owners Affected by Land Acquisition

 

Babajide Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Monday presented more than N3.1 billion in compensation to over 300 property owners whose lands were acquired for strategic infrastructure projects across the state.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony in Lagos, Sanwo-Olu said the compensation reflected his administration's commitment to fairness, transparency and the protection of citizens' rights in line with the Land Use Act.

He said land acquired for overriding public interest places both a legal and moral obligation on government to compensate affected persons fairly, transparently and promptly.

"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 said.

Sanwo-Olu said all claims underwent enumeration, professional valuation and title verification to ensure that only legitimate beneficiaries received compensation.

He said the acquired land would be used for roads, schools and other public infrastructure projects aimed at improving the quality of life for residents.

While acknowledging the sacrifices of affected property owners, the governor said infrastructure projects may benefit millions of people, but government must not ignore those directly impacted.

He advised beneficiaries to invest the compensation wisely for the future of their families and cautioned them against offering inducements to public officials, noting that civil servants involved in the exercise had carried out their duties professionally.

Deputy Gov. Obafemi Hamzat commended the affected residents for their patience and reaffirmed the state's commitment to compassionate governance.

Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Lands Bureau, Kamal Olowosago, said the exercise demonstrated the government's commitment to fairness, accountability and the rule of law in land administration. He noted that it followed an earlier compensation exercise held on Dec. 12, 2024, and reflected the state's consistency in fulfilling its statutory obligations.