Sanwo-Olu disclosed that the N3 billion compensation would be paid to 331 Project Affected Persons (PAPs) whose properties were acquired for strategic road projects designed to improve transportation, ease traffic congestion and stimulate economic activities across Lagos.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday presented compensation cheques worth N3 billion to 331 residents whose land and property were acquired for major road infrastructure projects across the state.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that development is pursued with fairness and respect for citizens’ rights.
Speaking during the presentation ceremony at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, the governor said the compensation reflected the state’s resolve to balance infrastructure development with social justice, stressing that government has a moral obligation to protect the interests of citizens affected by public projects.
Sanwo-Olu said the exercise was more than the distribution of compensation cheques, describing it as a demonstration of responsible governance where development is pursued with a human face.
“Behind every development corridor is a community. Behind every parcel of land is a story. Behind every acquisition are individuals whose lives are directly touched by the decisions of government,” he said.
According to the governor, whenever the state invokes its powers under the Land Use Act to acquire land for overriding public interest, it assumes a corresponding responsibility to compensate affected property owners fairly, transparently and without unnecessary delay.
“This is not charity; it is justice. It is not a favour; it is your right,” he said, adding that sustainable development can only be achieved when public trust is protected through fairness and accountability.
Sanwo-Olu disclosed that the N3 billion compensation would be paid to 331 Project Affected Persons (PAPs) whose properties were acquired for strategic road projects designed to improve transportation, ease traffic congestion and stimulate economic activities across Lagos.
He explained that every claim underwent a rigorous verification process, including enumeration, professional valuation by certified estate surveyors and confirmation of ownership, to ensure that only genuine beneficiaries received compensation.
The governor said the road projects would enhance connectivity across the state, reduce travel time, facilitate commerce, strengthen regional integration and unlock new economic opportunities for millions of Lagos residents.
He, however, acknowledged that while such infrastructure projects ultimately benefit the larger population, the immediate burden is often borne by individuals whose land and property are acquired.
Addressing the beneficiaries, Sanwo-Olu thanked them for their understanding and cooperation, describing their sacrifices as invaluable contributions to the continued growth and transformation of Lagos.
“Your sacrifice is acknowledged, your contribution is appreciated, and your partnership in the development of Lagos State will never be taken for granted. Your cooperation is helping to shape a Lagos that future generations will inherit with pride,” he said.
The governor urged recipients to make prudent use of the compensation by investing in productive ventures, securing the future of their families and rebuilding stronger.
He added that officials of the Lagos State Lands Bureau would continue to provide guidance and documentation support to beneficiaries requiring further assistance.
Sanwo-Olu also assured residents whose compensation claims were still being processed that no genuine claimant would be overlooked, urging them to remain patient as the verification process continues.
He warned individuals attempting to exploit the compensation exercise through fraudulent claims that government would not tolerate any form of abuse.
“The same diligence that protects genuine owners will expose impostors,” he cautioned.
The governor commended officials of the Lagos State Lands Bureau, estate surveyors and valuers, land surveyors, engineers, town planners, community leaders and other stakeholders for ensuring that the compensation exercise was conducted with professionalism, transparency and integrity.
He said the administration was not merely acquiring land to construct infrastructure but was also strengthening public confidence in government by fulfilling its legal and moral obligations to affected residents.
“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.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a Greater Lagos that delivers sustainable development while protecting the rights and welfare of its citizens.