By joshua KOGI GOVT PAYS ALMOST ₦1 BILLION COMPENSATION TO LAND OWNERS FOR PROPOSED AIRPORT IN ADAVI LGA
The Kogi State Government has commenced payment of almost ₦1 billion in compensation to over 2,000 land owners from Zariagi, Kabba Junction, and Irepeni communities in Adavi Local Government Area whose land was acquired for the proposed Kogi State Airport project.
The Kogi State Bureau of Lands handed over cheques of varying amounts to beneficiaries on Wednesday. Beneficiaries were visibly elated as they received payments for land acquired for the airport site.
Speaking at the event, Director General of the Bureau of Lands, TPL. Kehinde Augustine Salihu-Otaru, said Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s decision to fast-track construction of the airport necessitated immediate assessment and payment of compensation to affected farmers.
“The Governor’s vision is to deliver this airport without delay. That is why the Bureau was directed to process the assessment and pay affected persons promptly,” Salihu-Otaru stated.
He expressed gratitude to Governor Ododo for what he called “visionary leadership,” stressing that the airport will boost the state’s economy and strengthen trade ties with neighboring states. He also appreciated the beneficiaries for their sacrifice and assured them of government’s commitment to fulfilling its promises.
The DG urged beneficiaries to remain peaceful during the collection exercise and assured them that government is ready to address any other issues that may arise through their community leaders.
Salihu-Otaru further appealed to Kogi indigenes to pray for Governor Ododo, saying the airport will bring development, investment, and financial benefits that will mark “a new era of economic development” for the state.
Community leader of Irepeni, Hamza Shaibu, and Youth Leader of Zariagi, Ahmed Salihu Adeiza, thanked the governor for the prompt payment and pledged their communities’ loyalty to the government and support for the airport project.
The compensation exercise is part of ongoing efforts by the Ododo administration to clear encumbrances on the airport site and accelerate delivery of the project.
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