An Estate Surveyor and Valuer ESV Fatima Aleoghena said in dealing with compensation for crops, economic trees losses in resettlement project there must be transparency , valuation and good assessment.
She said that one of the fundamental best practices is the adoption of accurate and up-to-date valuation methods.
Aleoghena stated this in Abuja yesterday, she said that in estate surveying and valuation practice, the assessment and compensation of these losses require a systematic, fair, and transparent approach to ensure that displaced persons are adequately compensated and their livelihoods restored.
She explained that resettlement projects arising from land acquisition for public or private development often result in the loss of crops and economic trees, which constitute major sources of livelihood for affected populations.
She said this kind of compensation Estate surveyors and valuers must conduct detailed field surveys to identify and enumerate all affected crops and economic trees.
“This includes classifying crops by type, age, yield capacity, and economic importance.
“For economic trees such as locust bean, oil palm, or fruit trees, valuation should reflect not only their current market value but also their future income-generating potential”.
“The use of standardized valuation rates, often provided by government agencies, should be complemented with current market data to ensure realistic compensation.
Another critical practice is the principle of full replacement cost. Compensation should not be limited to the current value of crops alone but should include the cost of re-establishing them and the income lost during the gestation period before new crops or trees begin to yield.
“Estate surveyors should therefore incorporate elements such as cost of seedlings, labor for replanting, maintenance, and the time value of lost income.
“This approach aligns with international best practices and ensures that affected persons are not economically disadvantaged.
Transparency and stakeholder engagement are also essential in the compensation process”.
She stated that estate surveyors and valuers should work closely with affected communities, local leaders, and relevant authorities to ensure that valuation procedures are clearly explained and understood. “Participatory approaches, where farmers are involved in the enumeration and verification of their assets, help to minimize disputes and build trust in the process. Proper documentation and open communication further enhance accountability”.
She noted that addition, special consideration must be given to vulnerable groups and customary land users who may lack formal documentation of ownership.
“Estate professionals should ensure that all eligible persons, including tenants, women, and smallholder farmers, are recognized and fairly compensated for their losses. This requires a flexible and inclusive approach that goes beyond rigid legal frameworks”.
“Timely payment of compensation is crucial. Delays can exacerbate the financial hardship of displaced persons and undermine the objectives of resettlement programs. Estate surveyors and valuers should advocate for efficient administrative processes and ensure that compensation assessments are completed promptly and accurately”.
She concluded by saying that compensating for crop and economic tree losses in resettlement projects is a complex task that demands professional diligence and ethical responsibility.
“ By adopting accurate valuation techniques, applying the principle of full replacement cost, ensuring transparency, and promoting inclusivity, estate surveyors and valuers can play a vital role in safeguarding livelihoods and supporting sustainable resettlement outcomes wherein the claimant is expected to be better off economically than his, her former state before compensation”, she maintained.
