Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday presented compensation cheques worth ₦3 billion to 331 persons whose land and property were acquired for strategic road infrastructure projects across the state.
In his address during the presentation ceremony held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, Sanwo-Olu said the exercise was in line with his administration’s commitment to ensuring that development is pursued with fairness, justice and respect for the rights of citizens.
He added that while the government has the constitutional authority under the Land Use Act to acquire land for overriding public interest, it also has a legal and moral obligation to compensate affected property owners promptly and transparently.
“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,” he said.
He explained that every parcel of land acquired represents people’s lives, livelihoods and personal stories, pointing out that the government remains committed to recognising and protecting those interests.
According to him, the compensation was a right rather than an act of charity, adding that, “It is not charity; it is justice. It is not a favour; it is your right. Progress that overlooks people cannot endure, and development that ignores justice cannot command public trust.”
He added that all beneficiaries were verified through a rigorous process involving enumeration, valuation by professional estate surveyors and confirmation of title documents to ensure that only legitimate property owners received compensation.
The governor assured that the acquired lands would be used for strategic road projects aimed at improving connectivity, reducing travel time, facilitating commerce and stimulating economic growth across Lagos.
While acknowledging that infrastructure projects often require sacrifices from a few for the benefit of many, Sanwo-Olu thanked the affected residents for their cooperation and understanding.
“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.
The governor advised beneficiaries to make prudent use of the funds by investing wisely, securing their families and rebuilding their lives, adding that officials of the Lagos State Lands Bureau would provide necessary guidance and documentation support where required.
He also assured property owners whose compensation is still being processed that no genuine claim would be abandoned, urging them to remain patient as the exercise continues in line with due process.
He warned against attempts to manipulate the compensation process through fraudulent claims, saying the government’s verification mechanisms would expose impostors.
He commended officials of the Lagos State Lands Bureau, estate surveyors, land surveyors, engineers, town planners, community leaders and other stakeholders for ensuring that the exercise was conducted professionally and transparently.
“We are not simply acquiring land to build infrastructure; we are building trust and laying the foundation for the Lagos of tomorrow. Together, we shall continue to build a Greater Lagos that works for everyone,” he said.
