The Lagos State Government on Monday presented more than N3.1 billion in compensation to over 300 property owners whose land was acquired for strategic infrastructure projects across the state.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony in Lagos, Governor Babajide 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 acquisition for overriding public interest imposed 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 explained that all claims underwent due process, including enumeration, professional valuation and title verification, to ensure that compensation was paid only to legitimate beneficiaries.
He noted that every parcel of land represented a family, a livelihood and a personal story, stressing that development must always have a human face.
The governor said the acquired land would be used for the construction of roads, schools and other public infrastructure aimed at improving the quality of life of residents.
While acknowledging that the projects would benefit millions of people, he recognised the sacrifices made by affected property owners and assured them that the government remained committed to treating them with compassion and dignity.
“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,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu advised beneficiaries to invest their compensation prudently in ventures that would secure their families’ future rather than spend it on non-essential items.
He also urged them not to offer inducements to public officials, noting that civil servants involved in the exercise had discharged their responsibilities professionally.
“Our officers are available to guide you professionally without demanding any gratification,” he said.
In his goodwill message, the Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, commended the affected residents for their patience and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to compassionate governance.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Lands Bureau, Kamal Olowosago, described the exercise as another demonstration of the state’s commitment to fairness, accountability and the rule of law in land administration.
He said the presentation followed an earlier compensation exercise held on 12 December 2024, reflecting 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,” Olowosago said.
He added that while strategic infrastructure was essential to economic growth and improving residents’ quality of life, development must always be balanced with justice, equity and respect for citizens’ rights.
Olowosago commended the affected property owners for their patience and cooperation throughout the acquisition and compensation processes, describing their contributions as vital to delivering infrastructure that would benefit millions of Lagos residents for generations.
He also praised officials of the Lands Bureau, particularly those in the acquisition, reconciliation and compensation departments, for ensuring a transparent and credible compensation process.
