What happens when the government needs your land to build the future of Lagos? For over 300 families in Lagos, the answer this week was not displacement, but due compensation.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday handed out more than N3.1 billion in compensation to over 300 property owners whose lands were acquired for key infrastructure projects across the state.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony in Lagos, the Governor was clear about why this matters. He said the payment reflects his administration’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and protecting citizens’ rights under the Land Use Act.

cbinews.tv reports that Sanwo-Olu stressed that acquiring land for overriding public interest places a legal and moral duty on government to compensate people fairly, transparently and promptly.

He put it bluntly:

“Today’s exercise is not charity; it is justice. It is not a favour; it is the rightful entitlement of every verified project-affected person whose property was acquired for public purpose.”

The Governor explained that every single claim went through due process, from enumeration to professional valuation and title verification — to ensure the money reaches only legitimate beneficiaries.

“Behind every parcel of land is a family, a livelihood and a story. Development must always have a human face, and that is the principle guiding this administration,” he noted.

The acquired lands will be used for roads, schools and other public infrastructure designed to improve the quality of life for millions of Lagosians.

While acknowledging that these projects will benefit the state at large, Sanwo-Olu did not gloss over the sacrifice made by those directly affected.

“Infrastructure may benefit millions, but the government must never ignore those who bear the immediate impact. We acknowledge your sacrifice and appreciate your partnership in building a greater Lagos,” he said.

He also offered some fatherly advice to the beneficiaries, invest the money wisely in ventures that will secure your family’s future, not on frivolities.

And in typical Lagos fashion, he added a strong warning: do not bribe anyone. The Governor urged beneficiaries not to offer gratification to public officials, insisting that officers involved in the exercise have been directed to guide them professionally and free of charge.

“Our officers are available to guide you professionally without demanding any gratification,” he said.

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