The Lagos State Government has presented N3 billion in compensation to 331 property owners whose lands were acquired for strategic road infrastructure projects, reaffirming its commitment to balancing development with the rights of affected residents.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu presented the compensation cheques on Monday at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium in Alausa, Ikeja, describing the exercise as the fulfilment of the state’s legal and moral obligation to compensate residents whose properties were acquired for public purposes.
He said the payments were made in accordance with the provisions of the Land Use Act, which guarantees fair and prompt compensation for landowners whose properties are acquired by the government.
“Today, we have gathered not merely to present compensation cheques, but to reaffirm a principle that lies at the heart of responsible governance: that development must always have a human face,” the governor said.
“It is not charity; it is justice. It is not a favour; it is your right.”
According to Sanwo-Olu, the beneficiaries emerged after a rigorous verification process involving the enumeration of affected properties, valuation by certified estate surveyors and verification of land ownership documents to ensure that compensation was paid only to legitimate property owners.
He explained that the acquired properties were required for major road infrastructure projects aimed at improving transportation across Lagos, reducing traffic congestion, facilitating commercial activities and driving economic growth.
“These projects are strategic investments in the future of our state. They will improve connectivity, reduce travel time, facilitate commerce, strengthen regional integration and create opportunities for economic growth,” he said.
The governor acknowledged the sacrifices made by residents whose lands were acquired, noting that their cooperation would contribute significantly to the delivery of infrastructure that would benefit millions of Lagosians and future generations.
“Your sacrifice is acknowledged, your contribution is appreciated, and your partnership in the development of Lagos State will never be taken for granted,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu urged the beneficiaries to make prudent use of the compensation by investing the funds wisely to secure the long-term welfare of their families.
He also assured residents whose compensation claims are still being processed that all genuine claims would be honoured after the necessary verification procedures had been completed.
“To those whose compensation is yet to be processed, I assure you that your turn will come in due course; no valid claim will be abandoned,” he said.
The governor warned against fraudulent attempts to obtain compensation, stressing that the verification exercise would continue to safeguard the integrity of the process and protect the interests of legitimate beneficiaries.
He commended officials of the Lagos State Lands Bureau, estate surveyors, land surveyors, engineers, town planners and community leaders for ensuring transparency and professionalism throughout the compensation exercise.
“We are not simply acquiring land to build infrastructure; we are building trust and laying the foundation for the Lagos of tomorrow,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The compensation exercise forms part of the Lagos State Government’s broader infrastructure renewal programme, which prioritises the expansion and rehabilitation of road networks to improve mobility, support economic activities and accommodate the state’s rapidly growing population. Under the Land Use Act, governments are required to provide adequate compensation whenever land is compulsorily acquired for overriding public purposes, making such payments a key component of sustainable infrastructure development.
