Lagos-Calabar coastal highway earns praise from experts, CSOs, opposition figures

Civil society groups, opposition party leaders and economic experts have lauded the Federal Government for the progress recorded on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, describing it as a landmark project with far-reaching economic benefits.

During an inspection tour of the project in Lagos, the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, announced that the first section of the 750-kilometre highway—stretching from Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, to Eleko—will be completed by May 2026.

He disclosed that 35 kilometres had already been delivered, with 12 kilometres left to complete Section One.

Peoples Democratic Party chieftain and policy analyst, Otunba Segun Showunmi, said the initiative underscored the value of long-term planning and consensus-building in national development.

He urged Nigerians to rise above partisan divides and rally behind infrastructure projects that can transform the economy.

“What I have seen today is commendable,” Showunmi said. “Like Singapore, India and the UAE, Nigeria must build consensus around development and invest in legacy infrastructure projects.”

Financial analyst and Proshare Group chairman, Olufemi Awoyemi, described the project as a “test case” for financing and delivering large-scale infrastructure, noting that it would provide a vital alternative for cross-country movement and reduce congestion.

Civil society organisations also expressed approval. Declan Ihekaire, speaking for about 20 CSOs, said Nigerians should give credit where it is due. “Ultimately, the people are the beneficiaries of good initiatives,” he said.

Umahi stressed that the use of concrete technology, widely adopted in countries like India, would ensure durability.

He also confirmed that work on the second section of the highway, from Eleko to Ode-Omi in Ogun State, had begun.

The minister further addressed concerns over real estate developments affected by the project, saying the Federal Government would work with the EFCC, DSS and civil society groups to investigate issues surrounding alleged $200 million diaspora investments.

Highlighting other ongoing projects, Umahi listed the 477km Trans-Saharan Highway, the 422km Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe Expressway, and the 1,068km Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway, stressing that the Tinubu administration views infrastructure as the backbone of economic growth.