Government to return Native Grant 2 land in Nadarivatu to rightful owners

The Minister for Lands Filimone Vosarogo has confirmed that the Government will return the Native Grant 2 (NG2) land in Nadarivatu to its rightful owners, the Mataqali Nadala of Yavusa Nubu, marking a historic step toward resolving long-standing land issues.

Vosarogo says the reversion of NG2 reflects their commitment to right the wrongs of the past and to address the historical concerns of the Mataqali Nadala landowners.

He says the land, known as Native Grant 2 (NG2), covers about 15,000 acres (6,070 hectares) and was originally acquired by the Colonial Government in 1905 under Ordinance XI at a quit rental of twenty-five pounds.

The Minister says it was set aside as a sanatorium, forest, and recreation reserve, and later considered for agricultural development involving cocoa and coffee cultivation.

Vosarogo adds that after years of research, consultation, and review, the Ministry concluded that the land, once acquired for public purposes, is no longer required for its original use.

He says that in 2002, Cabinet approved in principle for the land to be reserved, but after discussions with the landowning unit, a request was made for reversion instead.

The Minister says on 2nd September 2025, Cabinet approved the reversion of the remaining balance of NG2 to the Mataqali Nadala, while existing leases will be transferred to either the iTaukei Land Trust Board (iTLTB) or the Land Use Division, depending on the preference of the landowners.

Vosarogo also noted that there is a secondary claim from Mataqali Navitini, which the iTaukei Lands and Fisheries Commission (iTLFC) will resolve before the final declaration is made.

He says they are working closely with the Solicitor-General’s Office to finalise and gazette the legal notice, and they anticipate completing this process before the end of the year.

Vosarogo says the decision reaffirms the Government’s commitment to justice, transparency, and respect for indigenous land rights, ensuring that the rightful landowners of Nadarivatu reclaim their ancestral heritage.