Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, has revealed that the Federal Government is on the verge of introducing revised compensation rates for individuals affected during land acquisitions for public projects.
This was revealed in a statement on Monday by the Ministry’s Director, Information and Public Relations Salisu Haiba.
According to the statement, Dangiwa spoke at the 2024 National Technical Development Forum on Land Administration, focusing on the Review of Compensation Rates on Crops and Economic Trees for Project-Affected Persons in Nigeria.
The Minister noted that reviewing the current compensation rates has become important for ensuring project-affected individuals get fair value for their sacrifice.
In addition, he underscored the critical value of crops and economic trees such as cocoa, palm, kola nut, mango, and cashew trees, among others, stating that they are not just sources of income but multi-generational assets that represent years, even decades, of labour and hope.
“These trees are also tied to cultural and social identities. When displaced or destroyed in the course of land acquisition for public projects, the loss can be devastating, not only financially but emotionally.
“That is why it is essential to ensure that compensation rates reflect the true value of these assets, considering both their immediate and long-term economic importance,” he said.
He said the review is a priority of the current administration and a central focus of effective land administration.
“The Land Use Act of 1978 stipulates that the government has the right to acquire land for public purposes. But it also provides the framework for fair compensation when public land acquisition affects livelihoods,” he said.
The minister noted that “the reality on the ground often reflects delays, disputes, and inadequate compensation that fails to account for the true value of agricultural investments.”
The minister also said that in the Renewed Hope Agenda the President believed that adequate compensation for crops and economic trees is not just a legal obligation but a moral one.
He emphasised the importance of an effective land administration system, considering its importance for agriculture, industry, housing, and urban development and its pivotal place as a lifeline for millions of Nigerians, pointing out that what the country has lacked for decades is effective land administration and not a lack of land.
“It is important to note that as a country, we are blessed with vast land covering about 923,769 square kilometres.
“We do not have a shortage of land. What we lack is effective administration and management of this massive resource that providence has bestowed on us. And until we can do so, we may not be able to unlock its potential and to develop at the pace that we need to” he stated.
(PUNCH)