Kebbi Government Commences Payment of N150.084 Million Compensation to Farmland Owners

By Umar Faruk Birnin Kebbl 

The Kebbi State Government has commenced the payment of compensation to 164 farmland owners in Unguwar Dambo village, under Birnin Kebbi local government area. The Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Lands and Housing, TPL. Dr. Abubakar Ahmed, disclosed this while briefing beneficiaries at the Ubandoman Gwandu's palace in Birnin Kebbi.

According to Dr. Abubakar Ahmed, the state government acquired the farmlands to build a new cemetery, which was proposed eight years ago. The old Birnin Kebbi cemetery is almost filled up, prompting the local government council to seek the state governor's approval for the new cemetery. The government will pay a total of N150,084,000 to the beneficiaries, with each person receiving a cheque based on the size of their farmland.

Dr. Abubakar noted that out of 100 hectares of land, the government owns only four hectares, while individuals own 96 hectares. Consequently, the state government is paying compensation solely for the 96 hectares of farmland owned by individuals.  He warned that beneficiaries who were not identified and verified by their ward heads, committees, or the Ubandoman Gwandu would not receive payment until they were verified.

Birnin Kebbi Local Government Council Chairman, Alhaji Dahiru Na-Yaya Ambursa, expressed gratitude to the state government for approving the new cemetery project. He appreciated the governor's generosity and concern for the people's immediate needs. The chairman called on the people to continue supporting the present administration. 

Representing the Emir of Gwandu, Galadiman Gwandu Alhaji Ibrahim Bashar KKB and Ubandoman Gwandu Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Ibrahim commended Governor Idris for his fairness and commitment to the welfare of the people. They expressed gratitude for the compensation paid to the affected landowners and lauded the governor's dedication to serving the state.