Korede Abdullah 
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu
LAGOS, Nigeria — Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has presented ₦3 billion in compensation to 331 property owners affected by strategic road infrastructure projects, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to fair, transparent and people-centred development.
The compensation was presented on Monday at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, where the governor said the payments reflected the state’s commitment to balancing infrastructure development with the rights of affected residents.
“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,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He explained that although the government has constitutional powers under the Land Use Act to acquire land for projects in the public interest, it also has a legal and moral obligation to compensate affected property owners promptly.
The governor said all beneficiaries underwent a comprehensive verification process involving property enumeration, professional valuation and confirmation of ownership documents before compensation was approved.
Describing the payments as a legal entitlement rather than an act of goodwill, Sanwo-Olu said: “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 said the acquired properties would facilitate strategic road projects designed to improve connectivity, reduce travel time and stimulate economic growth across Lagos State.
Sanwo-Olu thanked affected residents for their cooperation and assured those whose claims remain under review that all genuine beneficiaries would receive compensation once verification is completed.
He also warned that fraudulent claims would not succeed under the state’s verification system.
“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.
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