Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji on Thursday paid the sum of N300 million to 377 landowners whose properties were acquired for the construction of the Ekiti State Agri-Food Cargo Airport in the capital of Ado Ekiti.

Dispelling the insinuation that the airport project was a misplaced priority, Oyebanji posited that the facility was aimed at expanding the state’s economy, opening up a new prospect of economic opportunities and investments, as well as reinforcing industrial drives.

The Deputy Governor, Monisade Afuye, who represented Oyebanji, spoke in Ado Ekiti while presenting checks to landowners of Ijan, Igbemo, Afao, Iworoko and others.

He said the event marks the third and final tranche of compensation payments to individuals and families affected by the acquisition of land for the realization of the ambitious Ekiti State Cargo Airport facilities.

The governor, however, advised those whose land was acquired in the public interest and have not been compensated not to bother the contractors in the works, assuring that all their expectations will be met to compensate their losses.

He further clarified that the vision behind the airport was to build an infrastructure that would not only improve the state’s connectivity with national and international markets but also serve as a gateway for agriculture, commerce and tourism to boost local businesses.

“The Ekiti State Cargo Airport Project was conceived not only as an infrastructure achievement but as a critical pillar in our mission to drive economic diversification, stimulate local industry and create new opportunities for the people of Ekiti.

“We envision an airport that will not only improve the state’s connectivity to national and international markets, but will also serve as a gateway for agriculture, commerce and tourism, driving local business growth and attracting investments that will benefit to our communities.

Oyebanji saluted the farmers and landowners for their sacrifices, commitment and patience, saying the payment of compensation was geared towards appreciating their patriotism for a noble and common cause.

“The plaintiffs we honor here today have demonstrated an inspiring commitment to the future of Ekiti, agreeing to adjust their lives for a greater good that will ultimately benefit all citizens of this state.

“To you, the landowners, I say: thank you for your patience and understanding. Today’s ceremony marks the disbursement of the third and final tranche of compensation to 377 claimants.

“Let this be a testament to our administration’s dedication to delivering on its promises. We understand that prompt and fair compensation for those affected is not only a legal obligation but also a moral one. “Our sacrifice and cooperation with this administration are deeply valued,” he said.

Oyebanji added that his government is focused on creating an enabling environment, where every Ekiti citizen can feel the positive impact of the airport facilities, through increased business opportunities, job creation and infrastructure improvements.

Addressing the claimants, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Geographic Information Systems, Lands and Surveys, Prof. James Olaleye, said the compensation serves as compensation for losses suffered by landowners, which he said would help put a calming balm in their lives. efforts.

“I hope the stakeholders understand the genuine efforts of the present government to put all their concerns behind them. I hereby assure all claimants who are owed compensation for other project sites that all their dues will be settled very soon.

“Let me urge our people to refrain from disturbing the ongoing projects through threats of violence and other acts that may hamper the peace of the state,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiary communities, Chief Ojo Awe and Mr Olufemi Oso, commended the governor for being sympathetic to the plight of landowners by quickly paying outstanding compensations.

“On behalf of the nine communities that donated land for the construction of the airport, we thank the governor. Although it was painful to lose our property, we thank God because the airport project is gradually coming to fruition and will be a gain for all of us in the future,” he stated.