LAGOS, Nigeria – Lagos State Government on Monday disbursed the sum of N3 billion as compensation to 331 people whose land and property were acquired by the state government in the cause of provisions of roads and public infrastructures in the state.
Distributing the cheques to the affected persons, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu commended the affected individuals for their patience throughout the time it took the state government to come up with compensation, saying their attitude was a demonstration of cooperation with the state government in providing public facilities.
From left: Committee Chairman on Lands, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Olayinka Kazeem; Executive Secretary, Land Use & Allocation Committee (LUAC), Mrs. Ajetunmobi Ololade; Permanent Secretary, Lands Bureau, Mr. Kamar Olowoshago; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; representatives of Iranlowo Oluwa Mosque; Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and the SSG, Barr. ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin during the public presentation of cheques to 150 beneficiaries compensated for Lands acquired by the Lagos State Government, held at Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, the Secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja, on Monday, July 20, 2026.
Governor Sanwo-Olu explained that every development must have human face, because behind every land acquired for development are individuals whose lives are directly touched by the decision of the state government.
“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.
“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. For us in Lagos State, acknowledging those stories is not optional; it is a moral responsibility,” he said.
The governor explained that despite that the state had the powers under Sections 28 and 29 of the Land Use Act to acquire land for overriding public interest, it takes on a solemn obligation in return: to compensate those affected fairly, transparently, and promptly.
“Today’s ceremony is the fulfilment of that obligation. It is not charity; it is justice. It is not a favour; it is your right. Progress that overlooks people cannot endure. Development that ignores justice cannot command public trust,” he added.
Speaking further, Governor Sanwo-Olu explained that for the state government to arrive at the amount to paid to each individual as compensation, every claim made was verified through due process, enumeration, valuation by professional estate surveyors, and confirmation of title, to ensure that compensation reaches the rightful owners and no one else.
The governor added that the projects embarked on were strategic investments in the future of the state, saying that they would improve connectivity, reduce travel time, facilitate commerce, strengthen regional integration, and create opportunities for economic growth across communities in the state.
“They will improve connectivity, reduce travel time, facilitate commerce, strengthen regional integration, and create opportunities for economic growth across our communities. But we also recognize that while infrastructure may benefit millions, its immediate impact is often borne by a few,” he said.
The governor, however, appealed to those whose compensations were yet to be processed, assuring that they shall soon have their turn. “I assure you that your turn will come in due course; no valid claim will be abandoned. We appreciate your patience as the process continues in accordance with established procedures.”
Sanwo-Olu, therefore, warned those who may be tempted to exploit the process of paying compensation through fraudulent means to be careful because the same diligence that protects genuine owners will expose impostors.
Sanwo-Olu, however, advised the beneficiaries of the state largese to invest the money wisely.
“Let me also offer a word of counsel: let these funds work for you. Invest wisely; secure your families; rebuild stronger. The officials of the Lands Bureau are available to guide any beneficiary who requires advice or documentation support,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Barr.) Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali (Emugoriade I), the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom in Ikorodu, appreciated the state government for making good her promise to compensate those whose properties were affected in the cause of the development.
The monarch said he was so excited because members of his community constitute the largest number of beneficiaries, who are 125 in all.
The occasion was attended by the State Deputy Governor, Dr Kadir Obafemi Hazmat; Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abimbola Salu- Hundeyin; the Head of Service (HOS), Olabode Agoro represented by the Permanent Secretary in his ministry, Olayinka Wasiu; members of the State House of Assembly, permanent secretaries and traditional rulers.
