Kwara begins compensation for land acquisition of 2,000 hectares for Industrial Park project
The Kwara State Government says it has commenced compensation for acquiring 2,100 hectares of land intended to extend the Industrial Park, a project initiated in 2023.
ESV Abdulkareem Babatunde Sulyman, the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Geographic Information Service (KWGIS), while flagging off the exercise at the agency’s premises in Ilorin, said the acquired land, located off the old Ogbomoso road, spans over 15 communities in the Asa Local Government Area of the state.
According to him, 2,100 hectares were added to the 650 hectares previously acquired for the same purpose, on which development had already commenced.
He commended the state government, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for its developmental strides and for approving the release of over ₦500 million to settle all affected claims, improvements, and interests for more than 1,000 beneficiaries.
The KWGIS boss emphasised that this move fulfils the legal requirements for public land acquisition. “The government does not buy land; rather, compensation is paid in line with constitutional provisions to exhaust all subsisting rights on the acquired land,” Sulyman stated.
“Today is a special day as we flag off the payment of compensation to assess customary landowners, land purchasers, and farmers,” he added.
He appealed to all beneficiaries to ensure judicious use of the funds, urging the money reach all bonafide beneficiaries.
The Director of Land Services, ESV Abdulwahab AbdulRahman, called for community support to ensure the success of the project and the overall development of the state.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari and Chairman, Kwara State Traditional Council of Chiefs, represented by the Balogun Alanamu, Dr. Abubakar Usman Jos, expressed gratitude to the governor for his kind gestures and wisdom in initiating the project.
People of the affected communities expressed joy over the development, noting that the Industrial Park would bring job opportunities for the youths and overall growth of the area. The community leaders, however, pledged their full support for the project.
The Aare Ogele, Alhaji Garba Aremu Galadima, also commended the state governor and the KWGIS management for their efforts, pledging the support of his community for the successful completion of the Industrial Park.
