The Kwara State Government has assured residents of communities affected by the proposed Kwara Smart City Project that their interests will be fairly considered, with adequate compensation and protection of cultural heritage.
The assurance was given by the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Segun Ogunsola, during a meeting in Ilorin with a delegation from Alalubosa community in Ilorin East Local Government, led by the Baale, Alhaji Sakariyau Shonibare.
Dr. Ogunsola explained that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is personally monitoring the project to ensure it aligns with global best practices, balancing socio-economic development with preservation of cultural heritage.
He noted that concerns about job displacement had been addressed, stressing that the project would instead create hundreds of employment opportunities for local residents from inception to completion.
“We appeal for your full cooperation and support for the smooth execution of this project. The Smart City facilities will transform the area and deliver lasting benefits to all Kwarans,” he said.
On the concerns of investors, the Commissioner assured that their investments were secured and integrated into the project’s master plan to guarantee seamless business operations.
The Permanent Secretary, Alhaja Risikat Abdulazeez, thanked the community for engaging productively with government, adding that Governor AbdulRazaq would not disappoint in ensuring residents benefit fully from the project.
Also speaking, the Deed Registrar from Kwara State Geographical Information Service, Mallam Nuhu Yusuf, emphasized that the government values both historical and cultural landmarks, and will work with stakeholders to preserve identified heritage sites within the Smart City.
Presenting the community’s position, Dr. Babatunde Saka, Secretary of Alalubosa, said the meeting reflected the government’s transparency and accessibility, while praying for the continued success of the AbdulRazaq administration.
Other stakeholders, including investors already operating in the designated area, urged the state to factor in the peculiarities of their businesses. They, however, congratulated the government on the landmark Smart City project, describing it as another bold step that distinguishes the present administration.
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