Kogi State begins disbursement of nearly N1 billion in compensation to over 2,000 landowners affected by the proposed airport project in Adavi LGA.

The Kogi State Government has commenced the payment of compensation amounting to nearly N1 billion to more than 2,000 landowners in Adavi Local Government Area whose lands were acquired for the proposed Kogi State Airport.

The Kogi State Bureau of Lands on Tuesday distributed cheques of varying amounts to beneficiaries from the Zariagi, Kabba Junction, and Irepeni communities. The recipients expressed joy as they received their compensation payments.
The Director General of the Bureau, TPL. Kehinde Augustine Salihu-Otaru, said Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s directive to fast-track the construction of the airport prompted the immediate assessment and payment of compensation to affected landowners and farmers.
According to him, Governor Ododo’s visionary leadership is driving the airport project, which is expected to stimulate economic growth in the state and strengthen economic ties with neighbouring states.
Salihu-Otaru commended the affected communities for their cooperation and sacrifice, assuring them that the government remains committed to fulfilling all promises made to them. He also urged beneficiaries to maintain peace and order during the collection process, adding that outstanding concerns would be addressed through community leaders.
The Director General further appealed to Kogi indigenes to continue praying for Governor Ododo, noting that the airport project would attract development, investment, and increased economic opportunities to the state, ushering in what he described as a new era of economic development.
Speaking on behalf of their communities, the Community Leader of Irepeni, Hamza Shaibu, and the Youth Leader of Zariagi, Ahmed Salihu Adeiza, expressed appreciation to the governor for the prompt payment of compensation. They also pledged their communities’ loyalty to the government and their full support for the airport project.