- Sanwo-Olu presented over N3.1bn to more than 300 affected property owners
- The compensation covers land acquired for roads, schools and other projects
- The governor urged beneficiaries to invest the funds wisely and avoid bribery
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has presented more than ₦3.1 billion in compensation to over 300 property owners whose lands were acquired for major infrastructure projects across the state.
Speaking during the presentation ceremony on Monday, Eko Hot Blog reports the governor said the payment reflects his administration’s commitment to fairness, transparency and the protection of citizens’ rights in accordance with the provisions of the Land Use Act.
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Sanwo-Olu noted that whenever government acquires land for public interest, it has both a legal and moral duty to ensure affected property owners receive prompt and fair compensation.
He described the exercise as the fulfilment of a lawful obligation rather than an act of generosity.
“This is about justice. It is the legitimate entitlement of every verified individual whose property was acquired for public purposes,” he said.
The governor explained that all claims were subjected to detailed verification processes, including property enumeration, valuation by professionals and confirmation of ownership, to ensure that only qualified beneficiaries received payment.
According to him, every parcel of land represents families, livelihoods and personal histories, stressing that development should always consider the welfare of those directly affected.
Sanwo-Olu disclosed that the acquired properties would be used for the construction of roads, schools and other public infrastructure aimed at improving the quality of life for Lagos residents.
While acknowledging that the projects would serve millions of people, he appreciated the affected landowners for their cooperation and sacrifice in supporting the state’s development agenda.
He also advised beneficiaries to invest the compensation wisely in ventures that would provide long-term financial security for their families instead of spending the money on unnecessary expenses.
The governor further cautioned residents against offering bribes to public officials, assuring them that government officers involved in the compensation process had carried out their responsibilities professionally and transparently.
Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, in his remarks, praised the beneficiaries for their patience throughout the process and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to people-centred governance.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Lands Bureau, Kamal Olowosago, said the exercise demonstrated the government’s dedication to accountability, fairness and the rule of law in land administration.
He noted that the latest compensation exercise followed a similar payment programme conducted in December 2024, adding that it reflected the state’s consistency in meeting its legal obligations.
Olowosago maintained that while infrastructure development is essential for economic growth and improved living standards, it must always be pursued with fairness, equity and respect for the rights of affected citizens.
He commended the property owners for their cooperation throughout the acquisition process and also praised officials of the Lands Bureau for ensuring a transparent and credible compensation exercise.
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