By Jabiru Hassan
The Minister of Works, Engr. (Sen.) David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE, has described the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and other major infrastructure projects as key investments in Nigeria’s economic growth.
Speaking during an inspection tour of Phase I, Sections I and II of the highway in Lagos, Umahi emphasized that the project, which spans nine coastal states, is designed to boost economic activities, clean energy generation, and transportation infrastructure.
Umahi revealed that the coastal highway will feature wind turbines to generate clean energy, which will earn carbon credit for Nigeria and promote environmental sustainability.
Additionally, the highway will incorporate:
- Windmill energy for local communities
- Solar-powered streetlights
- A rail line to enhance connectivity and economic activities
He also highlighted that legacy projects in northern Nigeria will include dams for electricity generation and agricultural irrigation, alongside the construction of railway tracks.
Project Execution and Challenges
Umahi praised Hitech Africa Construction Limited, the contractor handling the project, for its technical expertise, speed, and quality of work.
Providing updates on Lagos’ section of the highway, Engr. Olukorede Kesha, Federal Controller of Works, explained that:
- The road starts at Ahmadu Bello Way Junction in Victoria Island and extends to Calabar, Cross River State, with a spur to Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, covering 750km.
- The Lagos portion is 103km long and is being executed in phases using continuous reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP).
She also noted that:
- Compensation payments for properties along the Right of Way (RoW) are ongoing.
- The Lekki Free Zone poses a major challenge, as it falls within Phase I, Section II (55.77km).
Umahi intervened in resolving conflicts between Lekki Free Trade Zone and Lagos Free Trade Zone stakeholders, ensuring the contractor has unhindered access to proceed with construction.
After negotiations, the government approved compensation for affected properties and included:
- Additional flyovers
- Solar-powered streetlights
- Two new interchanges
Representatives from both trade zones appreciated the minister’s intervention, stating it would enhance ease of doing business.
Umahi also inspected:
- Lekki Deep Sea Port Access Road (54.2km) from Epe to Sagamu/Benin Expressway, managed by Dangote Group under the FG’s Tax Credit Scheme.
- Ilelah (Sokoto) – Badagry (Lagos) Super Highway (1,058km), which is already under construction in Sokoto and Kebbi States.
- Abakaliki (Ebonyi) – Abuja Dual Carriageway (474km), which has been awarded.
- Akwanga (Nasarawa) – Jos (Plateau) – Bauchi – Gombe Road (420km), currently in the procurement stage.
With these Renewed Hope Legacy Projects, the federal government aims to expand Nigeria’s infrastructure, improve connectivity, and drive economic prosperity.
