The Federal Government of Nigeria has revealed that the first section phase one of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project will be inaugurated in May 2025, and that it will contain infrastructure such as modern solar-powered streetlights along the ten-lane highway, which will include a four-lane service lane to benefit local communities.
Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, made the announcement on Friday during an inspection of the highway, where he said that the contractor handling the project is working to make sure that it is completed before the deadline.
Umahi also revealed that there will be a construction of retaining walls in areas like the Landmark section which will make for improved stability.
The government is also set to repurpose parts of the available land to add service lanes, ensuring the project integrates better with surrounding communities.
The minister also emphasised the inclusion of modern infrastructure, such as solar-powered streetlights, security cameras, and strategically placed security points along the 700-kilometre stretch of the highway describes as one of the ‘legacy projects’ of the Tinubu administration.
Additionally, tree planting initiatives will enhance environmental protection and improve the road’s aesthetic appeal.
Umahi credited President Bola Tinubu’s support and magnanimity for preservation measures that protect structures along the project corridor.
He then revealed that President Tinubu plans to commission five key projects in each geopolitical zone by May 2025, reflecting his commitment to nationwide development.
Umahi further stated that the Federal Government had fully compensated affected property owners along the route, with payments totalling ₦18 billion. He also highlighted ongoing discussions with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) regarding a gas pipeline located along the Ondo and Ogun axes of the road.
Work on the highway officially commenced in March 2024, and while the first phase is set to be inaugurated by mid-2025, the entire 700-kilometre highway is expected to take eight years to finish.
Ozioma Samuel-Ugwuezi
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