FG Scales Down Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project to Six Lanes

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, a monumental infrastructure project in Nigeria, is set to undergo significant changes as the Federal Government plans to reduce its design from ten lanes to six. This decision comes amidst ongoing construction efforts led by Hitech Construction Company Ltd. The highway, which will stretch approximately 700 kilometers across nine states, aims to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic growth along Nigeria's southern coastline.

Minister of Works, David Umahi, emphasized the importance of this project during a recent inspection. He stated, “The first section of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is going to be completed by May 29th, and we are going to toll it. We’re going to get back our money within five to ten years." This tolling strategy is part of a broader plan to recover construction costs while also leveraging the highway’s economic potential by developing surrounding land for tourism and industrial purposes.

The highway is not just a transportation artery; it’s envisioned as a catalyst for economic development. Umahi remarked, “This is beautiful; it will promote tourism and have industrial clusters including hotels, factories, housing estates, and several other facilities.” The project aims to create job opportunities and foster local business growth through improved access and infrastructure.

However, the project has faced scrutiny regarding its environmental impact and funding transparency. Critics argue that while the highway promises economic benefits, it poses risks to local ecosystems and raises questions about accountability in its bidding process. The government plans to address these concerns by incorporating environmentally friendly features, such as solar-powered streetlights and tree planting initiatives along the route.

As construction progresses on the first phase, which spans 47.7 kilometers from Victoria Island to Lekki Deep Sea Port, the government remains committed to completing this ambitious project within eight years at an estimated cost of ₦15.6 trillion ($12.5 billion). With ongoing inspections and adjustments, including lane reductions for cost efficiency, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway represents both a significant investment in Nigeria's future and a complex challenge in balancing development with environmental stewardship.