Completion of Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Expected in Three Years

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, which stretches for 750 kilometers, is expected to be completed within three years. This timeline suggests the highway could be ready around 2029, before the end of President Bola Tinubu’s second term in 2031.

Umahi shared this information during a recent interview on Arise Television. He defended the government’s choice to focus on major infrastructure projects, despite concerns about the poor condition of many existing federal roads across the country.

He explained that the highway was awarded without a public bidding process but insisted that this was legal. He expressed confidence that the project would be completed in three years, linking his optimism to his faith in the current administration.

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is a key project aimed at improving transportation along Nigeria’s southern coast and connecting coastal communities. However, it has sparked discussions about how the government allocates funding and resources, especially as many current roads remain in bad shape.

Umahi mentioned that about 17,000 kilometers of roads are currently being constructed or reconstructed by his ministry, in addition to the major projects like the coastal highway. He noted that since taking office, they have completed around 1,700 kilometers of roads, along with several flyovers, bridges, and underpasses.

When questioned about the decision to invest in new highways while existing roads are in disrepair, Umahi clarified that the legacy projects also include improvements to current roads. He added that these projects are designed to attract private investment rather than relying solely on government funds.

Umahi also addressed the growing traffic congestion in the Lagos area, stating that urgent action is needed to prevent worsening conditions. He mentioned plans to build additional routes to ease traffic flow.