The Federal Government has pledged to address outstanding compensation disputes affecting residents whose properties were impacted by railway construction in Zaria, Kaduna State, as the disagreements continue to delay a proposed railway extension.
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Funso Adebiyi, gave the assurance during a visit to the palace of the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmad Bamali, as part of efforts to strengthen cooperation between the government, traditional institutions and affected communities.
Adebiyi said the ministry would examine complaints from residents, review relevant records and work towards an acceptable resolution. He also disclosed plans to meet with affected residents to assess their grievances and determine the next steps.
The ministry identified compensation-related challenges as one of the factors delaying the extension of the railway line from Jadji Station towards the Kano–Abuja rail corridor.
During the meeting, the Emir also appealed to the Federal Government to consider naming the proposed railway extension after his grandfather in recognition of his historical contribution to railway development in Zaria.
Bamali welcomed the return of railway services to the area, noting that improved rail connectivity could provide residents with an alternative to road transportation and strengthen links with other parts of the country.
The proposed engagement with affected residents represents a step towards resolving the outstanding disputes. However, the ministry has not announced a final settlement or a specific date for resolving the compensation claims.
Resolving the grievances could help address community concerns and remove one of the reported obstacles to railway expansion. Fair compensation and sustained engagement with affected residents will remain important to the project’s progress.
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