Construction is underway on sections one and two of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway from Lagos to the Ogun-Ondo border as well as sections 3A and 3B in Calabar and Akwa Ibom, respectively, each at varying stages of progress.
The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, disclosed this on Saturday during the inauguration of a 30km stretch of the highway by President Bola Tinubu.
“This project features a six-lane carriageway with a total corridor width of 60 metres,” he stated.
Umahi further explained that the corridor includes drainage systems, flyovers and bridges, pedestrian bridges, 25-metre-wide railway tracks, concrete ducts for utilities, and solar-powered street lighting.
“The concrete road pavement is designed as 275mm continuous reinforced concrete,” he added.
According to the minister, the legacy project is expected to generate employment and economic opportunities.
“It will provide direct jobs for thousands during and after construction, while opening up economic opportunities for millions of Nigerians.”
He noted that the highway would improve accessibility and connectivity, enhancing access to production and marketing centres for over 30 million people, thereby bridging the divide between rural and urban areas.
The highway will also provide direct access to under-utilised waterways, encouraging the establishment and expansion of maritime industries such as ocean terminals, ship repair facilities, and passenger cruise terminals.
“This will place coastal communities at the forefront of the Blue Economy,” he said.
Umahi added that the project would stimulate the creation of further export processing zones in coastal states, boosting economic growth and development.
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The minister also stated that the highway would strengthen regional and national security by enhancing surveillance and response capabilities.
Moreover, it would promote tourism development by unlocking the potential of at least nine states.
“The project will showcase coastal attractions and foster eco-tourism, making beaches accessible to millions while supporting the growth of eco-sanctuaries and environmental conservation,” he said.
He emphasised that the coastal highway would improve shoreline protection and environmental sustainability.
According to Umahi, it will help safeguard the shoreline along its route by preventing erosion and preserving coastal ecosystems.
“This project will be completed in sections, each commissioned and tolled to recover project costs,” he concluded.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will pass through Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom states, terminating in Calabar, Cross River.
