Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has disclosed that his administration has paid approximately ₦7 billion in compensation to 4,865 households whose properties were affected by ongoing road construction projects across the state’s three senatorial zones.
The governor made this known on Saturday during the flag-off of compensation payments totalling about ₦2 billion to 865 households affected by the construction of township roads in Zaria, Giwa and Shika.
Speaking at the event, held at Waziri Lawal Primary School, Angwan Iya, in Zaria, Sani said his administration had remained committed to ensuring that development projects respected the dignity and welfare of residents.
“Since taking office on May 29, 2023, we have remained guided by the conviction that development must advance human dignity,” he said.
He added that infrastructure development should not be measured solely by physical progress but also by how fairly projects are implemented.
“Infrastructure gives physical expression to progress, but the fairness with which it is delivered determines whether citizens experience government as a source of reassurance and opportunity,” the governor stated.
According to him, the reconstruction of 11 township roads within Zaria and Sabon Gari Local Government Areas, alongside roads in Giwa and Shika, reflects his administration’s commitment to improving connectivity and expanding economic activities.
“These investments will ease movement, support commerce and bring communities closer to schools, healthcare and other essential services. Their enduring value will be measured by the opportunities they create and the quality of life they help secure,” he said.
The governor, however, explained that as construction progressed, homes, businesses and public utilities were identified within the designated rights-of-way.
He said the government consequently recognised the need to address the impact of construction on affected residents alongside the technical requirements of the projects.
Sani disclosed that the compensation cheques being distributed amounted to approximately ₦2 billion.
“These payments are intended to support affected families as they relocate, rebuild and reorganise their livelihoods.
“Compensation fulfils an obligation owed to citizens whose property is required for public development. Its purpose is to ensure that the benefits of improved infrastructure are not secured through avoidable hardship for those directly affected,” he stated.
The governor commended residents from the affected areas, including Babban Dodo to Kofar Kuyan Bana, Rimin Tsiwa to Kofar Gayan, Tudun Wada, Giwa Township and Shika Township, for their patience and cooperation.
He acknowledged that relocating could bring uncertainty, additional expenses and disruption to people’s familiar surroundings.
“We understand that relocation involves uncertainty, expense and the disruption of familiar surroundings. Your willingness to engage constructively has helped us pursue these projects with greater understanding of their impact on your lives,” he added.
Sani also commended the surveyors, valuers, engineers and community representatives whose work supported the property assessment process.
He further directed relevant utility agencies to expedite the safe relocation of water, electricity and telecommunications infrastructure affected by the road projects.
