The African Development Bank (AfDB) has verified the payment of N1.45 billion to 195 residents affected by the Ekiti Knowledge Zone (EKZ) project in Ekiti State.
The compensation, approved by Governor Biodun Oyebanji in June, followed an updated valuation of lands, economic trees, and assets across the 208-hectare project site in Ago-Araromi and Ijan-Ekiti.
The EKZ initiative aims to establish a modern city focused on innovation, ICT training, and knowledge-driven enterprises. AfDB officials, led by Social Safeguard Specialist Dr. Mohammed Hamadina and Environmental Safeguard Expert Uzoma Okoroafor, conducted a verification visit to ensure that all Project Affected Persons (PAPs) received their dues and that any concerns were addressed.
Hamadina emphasized the bank’s commitment to fairness and transparency, stating, “Any individual who loses property or livelihood to an AfDB-backed project must be adequately compensated in a way that uplifts and does not disadvantage them.” Okoroafor added that the project is designed to strengthen local development and economic growth in Ekiti State.
Governor Oyebanji’s Technical Adviser on Green Economy, Dr. Akinyemi Akinyugha, lauded the process, describing it as essential for accountability and ensuring only legally acquired lands are affected. Community leaders, including the Chairman of Ago Araromi Community, Ojo Bankole, and resident Aduloju Ayodeji, commended the transparency and thoroughness of the exercise.
The EKZ project is now progressing into the infrastructure development stage, reinforcing the state government and AfDB’s shared commitment to sustainable growth, youth empowerment, and community inclusion.
