African Development Bank Confirms ₦1.45bn Compensation to Ekiti Knowledge Zone Residents
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has confirmed the disbursement of ₦1.45 billion to 195 residents affected by land acquisition for the Ekiti Knowledge Zone (EKZ), a flagship innovation and skills-development project in Ekiti State. The verification exercise, conducted in Ago-Araromi and Ijan-Ekiti, ensured that all Project Affected Persons received the payments approved in June by Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
AfDB’s team, led by Social Safeguard Specialist Dr Mohammed Hamadina and Environmental Safeguard Expert Uzoma Okoroafor, reviewed compensation documents and met with community members to confirm accurate and transparent payment procedures. The updated valuation covered lands, economic trees, and physical assets across the 208-hectare project area.
Hamaina reiterated AfDB’s compliance requirements, noting that every individual impacted by a bank-supported project must receive compensation that restores their livelihoods. Okoroafor added that the EKZ represents a long-term investment in Ekiti State’s human capital and economic competitiveness.
State Government Reaffirms Commitment to Due Process
Dr Akinyemi Akinyugha, Technical Adviser on Green Economy to Governor Oyebanji, described the verification as a critical step in preserving accountability. He emphasised that the process ensures only legitimately acquired lands fall within the project boundary, thereby protecting community rights and project integrity.
Community leaders, including Ago-Araromi Chairman Ojo Bankole and resident Aduloju Ayodeji, commended the exercise, citing its transparency and thorough engagement with affected households.
With compensation now verified, the EKZ project is advancing into core infrastructure development. The initiative aims to establish a modern knowledge city that integrates ICT training, innovation hubs, and enterprise development facilities to position Ekiti as a regional technology and talent hub.
Outlook
The completion of compensation verification strengthens confidence in the EKZ’s governance framework and signals steady progress toward delivery. As construction begins, investors and development partners will be watching the project’s next phase closely, given its potential to catalyse digital skills, youth employment, and knowledge-based economic growth in Ekiti State.
