Governor says compensation is “not charity, but rightful entitlement” as affected property owners receive long-awaited payouts for seized lands
In a powerful display of government accountability, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has handed over a staggering N3.1 billion in compensation to over 300 property owners whose lands were acquired for critical infrastructure projects across the state.
The emotional presentation ceremony held in Lagos on Monday saw beneficiaries finally receiving what the governor described as their “rightful entitlement” after enduring the painful process of surrendering their properties for public good.
“Today’s exercise is not charity; it is justice,” Sanwo-Olu declared to the gathering of affected property owners. “It is not a favour; it is the rightful entitlement of every verified project-affected person whose property was acquired for public purpose.”
A Promise Kept
The governor, addressing the beneficiaries, emphasized that land acquisition for public interest imposes both a legal and moral obligation on government to compensate fairly, transparently, and promptly. He made it clear that behind every piece of land lies a family’s livelihood and legacy.
The administration insisted on due process throughout the exercise, including enumeration, professional valuation, and title verification—ensuring that only legitimate beneficiaries received their payouts.
Infrastructure With a Human Face
Sanwo-Olu revealed that the acquired lands would be transformed into roads, schools, and other vital public infrastructure designed to improve the quality of life for millions of Lagosians. However, he stressed that development must always maintain a human face.
“Infrastructure may benefit millions, but the government must never ignore those who bear the immediate impact,” the governor said, acknowledging the sacrifices made by affected property owners.
Wise Counsel for Beneficiaries
In fatherly advice to the recipients, Sanwo-Olu urged them to invest their compensation prudently in ventures that would secure their families’ futures, rather than squandering it on non-essential items.
He also warned against offering bribes to government officials, assuring that civil servants involved in the process had acted professionally and were available to guide beneficiaries without demanding any gratification.
Government’s Unwavering Commitment
Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat commended the affected residents for their patience, while Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Lands Bureau, Mr. Kamal Olowosago, described the exercise as another demonstration of the government’s commitment to fairness, accountability, and the rule of law in land administration.
Olowosago noted that this presentation followed an earlier compensation exercise held on December 12, 2024, proving the government’s consistency in fulfilling its statutory obligations.
“Your sacrifices are contributing to critical infrastructure that will improve the lives of millions of Lagos residents today and for generations to come,” he told the beneficiaries.
The permanent secretary also praised officials of the Lands Bureau, particularly those in the acquisition, reconciliation, and compensation departments, for ensuring a transparent and credible process.
