Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday presented more than ₦3.1 billion in compensation to over 300 property owners whose lands were acquired by the state government for strategic infrastructure projects.
Speaking during the presentation ceremony in Lagos, the governor said the compensation reflected his administration’s commitment to fairness, transparency and the protection of citizens’ rights in line with the provisions of the Land Use Act.
Sanwo-Olu noted that while government possesses the legal authority to acquire land for overriding public interest, it also bears both a legal and moral responsibility to compensate affected property owners fairly, transparently and without delay.
“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,” he said.
The governor explained that all claims were subjected to rigorous verification, including enumeration, professional valuation and title confirmation, to ensure compensation was paid only to legitimate beneficiaries.
He stressed that every parcel of land represented more than a physical asset, describing it as a source of livelihood and security for many families.
“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,” he said.
According to Sanwo-Olu, the acquired lands will be utilised for roads, schools and other public infrastructure designed to improve the quality of life of Lagos residents.
While acknowledging that the projects would ultimately benefit millions of people, he recognised the sacrifices made by affected property owners and assured them that government remained committed to treating them with dignity and compassion.
“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.
The governor advised beneficiaries to invest the compensation wisely in ventures capable of securing their families’ future rather than spending the funds on non-essential items.
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He also cautioned beneficiaries against offering gratification to government officials, maintaining that civil servants involved in the compensation exercise had discharged their responsibilities professionally.
“Our officers are available to guide you professionally without demanding any gratification,” he said.
In his goodwill message, Deputy Governor Dr Obafemi Hamzat commended the affected property owners for their patience and cooperation, assuring them that the state government would continue to pursue people-centred governance.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Lands Bureau, Kamal Olowosago, described the exercise as another demonstration of the government’s commitment to fairness, accountability and the rule of law in land administration.
He recalled that the latest compensation followed a similar exercise conducted on December 12, 2024, describing it as evidence of 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 emphasised that while strategic infrastructure remains essential for economic growth and improved living standards, development must always be balanced with justice, equity and respect for citizens’ rights.
The permanent secretary thanked the affected property owners for their patience throughout the acquisition and compensation process, noting that their sacrifices would contribute to infrastructure projects that would benefit millions of Lagos residents for generations.
He also commended officials of the Lands Bureau, particularly those in the acquisition, reconciliation and compensation departments, for ensuring a transparent, credible and accountable compensation process.