Construction on the $1.96 billion Kano-Maradi Rail Project has intensified despite diplomatic strains between Nigeria and Niger Republic. Relations have been strained following accusations that Nigeria’s government plans to destabilize Niger.
This project, partially financed by the African Development Bank (AfDB), traverses 122 communities across 25 local government areas in Nigeria and 11 communities in Niger. The 283.75-kilometer standard gauge railway connects Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states with Maradi in Niger Republic.
Compensation Issues Plague the Kano-Maradi Rail Project
Findings indicate 3,252 displaced persons have not received compensation three years after the Kano-Maradi Rail Project began. A settlement audit by Windforce Safeguards Limited reveals that farmers and residents displaced from their homes remain uncompensated.
The project is expected to displace 12,695 homes and 2,064 assets. Of the N20.325 billion allocated for asset valuation, only N12.307 billion has been disbursed. However, 5,531 affected persons are dissatisfied with the payments received.
Residents of Kano State’s Dalli, Firji, Danheji, and several other communities have expressed dissatisfaction with the meager compensations.
Farmers Speak Out Against Compensation Delays
Babangida Idris from Garo, Katsina State, lamented the lack of payment despite promises. “Three months have passed since officials promised compensation, but nothing has been paid,” he said.
Similarly, Nuhu Idi from Dokawa village reported being underpaid. “They paid us N500,000, but N60,000 was deducted as bank charges,” he revealed. He added that over 50 farmers in his area faced similar issues.
Jigawa State Communities Raise Additional Concerns
Mohammad Danladi of Yanzaki village in Jigawa State noted that new farmlands taken for an overhead bridge have not been compensated. Residents of Kadandani village echoed these grievances, with many awaiting compensation for additional land acquisitions.
According to Ward Head Danladi Isah, the valuation process failed to reflect actual asset worth.
Audit Report Highlights Valuation Irregularities
A settlement audit released in September 2024 criticized the use of the “depreciation valuation method” for asset valuation. This method contravenes the AfDB’s Resettlement Action Plan, which recommends replacement valuation to ensure fair compensation.
The report revealed that many displaced persons (PAPs) learned their compensation amounts only at the point of disbursement. Thirty-two percent of respondents expressed dissatisfaction, while 78 percent reported being unaware of how their assets were valued.
Communal Assets and New Displacements Uncompensated
The audit disclosed that communal assets, such as cemeteries in Chedi Ingawa and other communities, remain uncompensated. Additionally, route realignments have displaced more residents, including those in Yan Zaki and Makurda, who are yet to receive payments.
Kano-Maradi Rail Project Progress Inspires Optimism
Construction has resumed along the Kano-Maradi Rail Project corridor after earlier delays. Residents of Kano, Jigawa, and Katsina States are optimistic about the project’s economic benefits.
Malam Musa of Dundubus in Jigawa State expressed hope, saying, “The project will bring economic benefits and improve transportation in our region.”
Nura Garba, a trader in Sabon Garin Dan Malam, echoed similar sentiments. “The railway will help us transport goods easily and attract more customers,” he stated.
Farmers like Adamu Aminu from Andaza village are optimistic about the railway’s impact on agriculture. “The railway will make transporting produce cheaper and easier,” he said.
Community Leaders Emphasize the Project’s Importance
Community leaders have highlighted the transformative potential of the Kano-Maradi Rail Project. Alhaji Abdullahi Shuwarin of Shuwarin town described the project as a “game-changer” for trade and regional connectivity.
“We hope the government completes this project on time to unlock its full potential,” he said.
Recommendations for Fair Compensation
The audit report recommended a transparent negotiation process for compensations. It urged authorities to adopt AfDB-compliant methods, ensuring fairness for affected individuals. Immediate action is needed to resolve compensation issues and mitigate dissatisfaction among displaced persons.
