President Bola Tinubu has announced that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will improve access to production and marketing centers for 30 million people.
This announcement was made during the flag-off of the 700km highway project in Lagos, marking the commencement of several projects to commemorate his first year in office.
Tinubu stated, “During the period of construction, the road will provide direct employment for thousands of people, and indirect employment for tens of thousands more. Economic opportunity for millions is being opened.”
He emphasized that the highway would fast-track community development and bring development closer to the people, providing improved access for millions.
“You can easily predict a journey, vertically and go along the horizontal line and do the definition of free movement of people,” he added.
The Federal Government began constructing the highway in March, designed to extend through nine states with two spurs leading to the northern states. The project, which required the demolition of some buildings, faced criticism from Nigerians and the National Assembly, who questioned the timing.
Last Thursday, Minister of Works David Umahi disclosed that 750 houses on the path of the highway have been marked for demolition. Umahi announced a N2.75bn compensation for affected property owners, but some stakeholders argued that the compensation did not match their investments.
Responding to the criticism, President Tinubu appealed for public understanding, particularly from those whose properties and livelihoods would be affected.
“We all make some sacrifices to enable our country to grow. This government is a compassionate government that cares for you and will do the utmost to offer succor, by way of compensation,” he said.
Tinubu described the highway as a symbol of hope, unity, and prosperity for Nigerians. “This project is more than just a road – it is a symbol of hope, unity, and prosperity. It will connect our communities in nine states, foster trade and commerce, boost tourism, and create new opportunities for generations to come,” he noted.
Tinubu highlighted the significance of safety, sustainability, and social responsibility, urging stakeholders to collaborate to ensure the project’s benefits and lasting legacy.
“This is not only a legacy project of this administration but a dream come true that will connect some neglected towns and cities along the coastal route,” he said.
He commended the Lagos State Government and private investors for developing the Lekki Deep Sea Port and noted that the new highway would enhance business and investment opportunities along the project corridor.
Praising the Minister of Works, Tinubu acknowledged the model of EPC+F (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Plus Finance) adopted for the project.
“This sees the Federal Government investing while waiting for private investors to bring on board their counterpart funds,” he said.
Tinubu asserted that the 10-lane road project represents a crucial step in enhancing connectivity, facilitating economic growth, and improving the quality of life for Nigerians.
“To the glory of God and benefit of our people, it is my greatest pleasure to flag off this project and also virtually flag off the spurs about to be procured. I also flag off the massive rehabilitation of 330 roads and bridges across the nation. Let the construction begin,” he declared.
Acknowledging the challenges of implementing such a large-scale project, Tinubu thanked key stakeholders for their support and contributions.
“Everybody wants a good highway, but nobody wants you to go through their backyard,” he said, expressing gratitude to private sector leaders like Gilbert Chagoury and Aliko Dangote for their support.
Tinubu concluded by emphasizing the long-term vision behind the project.
“We said we would do this road, and we are determined to do it. The way we are going, we have the rule that will outlast us and have lived all of us here present; that is how to build the future,” he said.
The 10-lane coastal road will link Lagos to Cross River, passing through Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom states before ending in Cross River. The road will be constructed using concrete pavement.
The government has also established a committee to review, assess, and compensate landowners affected by the construction. This committee, comprising members from the ministry, Lagos State, affected communities, and other stakeholders, is responsible for verifying the eligibility of claimants, assessing the dimensions of affected properties, and determining appropriate compensation amounts.
