Minister of Works David Umahi has provided assurance to the public that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project will continue as planned despite facing a legal challenge. The project, spanning 700 kilometers from Victoria Island, Lagos, to Calabar, Cross River State, is anticipated to enhance infrastructure, connectivity, and economic activities along Nigeria’s coastal region.
Umahi reiterated the government’s commitment to the project during a recent press briefing in Abuja. He emphasized that all necessary legal and procedural requirements have been met, including compensation payments and adherence to the designated corridor for federal projects.
Addressing concerns about the project’s procurement process, Umahi explained that it had received approval from the Federal Executive Council under the Restrictive Procurement Act. He defended the project’s cost and scale, dismissing comparisons to international projects and criticizing those questioning its value without proper understanding.
The Minister assured stakeholders that environmental and social impact assessments had been conducted, with the project included in the 2023 supplementary appropriation. Umahi warned against attempts to obstruct the project through legal means, stating that such efforts would be futile.
Asserting his resolve, Umahi declared his readiness to face opposition, emphasizing his determination to see the project through to completion.