By Maikudi Muhammad Marafa
The Kano State Government has approved the allocation of approximately ₦1.7 billion to settle compensation claims arising from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) 330kV power transmission line project affecting residents of Rimin Zakara, Gaida and Ja’en communities.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf announced that the decision followed extensive consultations, stakeholder engagements and a comprehensive review of complaints submitted by individuals and communities affected by the project.
The Governor noted that the compensation dispute had lingered for several years, resulting in uncertainty, prolonged litigation and delays in the execution of the strategic transmission project.
According to him, shortly after assuming office, his administration directed a fresh review of the matter to identify legitimate beneficiaries, verify compensation previously paid and determine outstanding obligations owed to affected persons.
Following the review, the State Government approved the release of about ₦1.7 billion to compensate all verified beneficiaries, taking into account earlier payments and all outstanding entitlements.
In addition to the monetary compensation, the government has approved the allocation of one plot of land to each verified beneficiary upon completion of the verification process and submission of the required documentation.
Governor Yusuf described the intervention as part of his administration’s commitment to resolving inherited challenges while safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of citizens.
He expressed confidence that the settlement would remove one of the major obstacles delaying the implementation of the TCN 330kV transmission line project.
The Governor emphasized that the project is of strategic importance to both Kano State and Nigeria, noting that a strengthened electricity transmission network will improve power supply, stimulate economic growth, attract investment and enhance development opportunities for communities.
He therefore called on verified beneficiaries, community leaders, government agencies, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and other stakeholders to cooperate fully in completing the verification, documentation and other legal processes required for the successful resolution of the compensation exercise.
The approval comes as the Kano State Government continues to pursue policies aimed at improving electricity infrastructure and expanding critical public utilities to support sustainable socio-economic development.
