FG initiates review of compensation rates for crops, economic trees
By Kunle Sanni
The Federal Government is set to introduce revised compensation rates for individuals affected by land acquisitions for public projects, according to the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa.
The initiative is seen as a critical step in addressing the challenges faced by project-affected individuals and ensuring that compensation is both fair and transparent.
Speaking at the 2024 National Technical Development Forum on Land Administration, held on October 21, Dangiwa emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to comprehensive land reforms aimed at ensuring fair compensation and effective land management.
Dangiwa highlighted the economic and cultural importance of crops and economic trees like cocoa, palm, and cashew, describing them as multigenerational assets.
“These trees represent decades of labor and are tied to both financial and emotional well-being,” he said, calling for compensation rates that reflect the true value of these resources.
He noted that the current Land Use Act of 1978 provides a legal framework for land acquisition, but its implementation has often led to inadequate compensation.
The Minister emphasized that fair compensation is not just a legal obligation but a moral duty under President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
Dangiwa also highlighted long-standing issues such as inconsistency in land tenure security and legal rights, calling for streamlined land administration. He credited President Tinubu for showing the political will necessary to drive these reforms.
Other speakers at the forum, including Permanent Secretary Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi and World Bank consultant Dr. Michael Ilesanmi, stressed the importance of aligning compensation with market realities, inflation, and the future economic potential of crops.
