JUST IN: IRWA speaks to ways to mitigate against the challenges of Right of way acquisition
By Joseph OGB, Abuja
The International Right of Way Association, IRWA, has disclosed that one of the challenges of infrastructural development is the process of land acquisition and payment of compensation.
However, the involvement of professionals in the process of land acquisition and compensation will surly mitigate against such issues.
In a statement made available by the chapter Secretary of International Right of Way Association ESV IKECHUKWU NWACHUKWU stating that IRWA is playing a critical role in ensuring that the right professionals are engaged to handle issues regarding to Right of way acquisition for the proposed High-Speed Rail project in Nigeria particularly in addressing the concerns of Project Affected Persons, (PAP).
He said: ” The International Right of Way Association (IRWA) is an association of right of way professonals like Estate Surveyors and Valuers, Land Surveyors, Engineers, Environmentalist , Lawyers and so on.
” Through in-depth training, stakeholder engagement, and international best practices, IRWA helps ensure that land acquisition is carried out transparently, fairly, and in compliance with both national laws and global standards.
” This includes conducting proper community engagements, Assessment of compensation payable, designing equitable compensation frameworks, and creating robust grievance redress mechanisms that safeguards the interests of all the project proponents.
” By fostering collaboration between government agencies, financiers, local authorities, and communities, IRWA promotes cooperation and trust, which minimizes disputes, accelerates the acquisition process, and reduces the risk of costly project delays.
” Beyond facilitating the acquisition process, IRWA embeds professional land management practices that strengthen the long-term sustainability and attractiveness of Railway projects.
” By integrating social, environmental, and economic considerations into ROW management, the association ensures that PAPs are not only compensated but also adequately supported to rebuild their livelihoods.
” This inclusive approach boosts public acceptance of the proposed high-speed rail projects and enhances investor confidence, as projects delivered with minimal conflict.
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