The Federal Government says the ongoing construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Expressway is aimed at improving regional integration, expanding economic opportunities and transforming transportation across Nigeria.
Minister of Works Dave Umahi made the remarks during a meeting with traditional rulers in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State while inspecting the Ondo section of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
Umahi said the two flagship road projects represent a major part of the Federal Government’s efforts to modernise Nigeria’s transport infrastructure and improve connectivity between regions.
According to the minister, most of the other road projects currently being executed by the government were inherited from previous administrations.
He noted that many highways completed by earlier governments had deteriorated within a few years, stressing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to delivering durable road infrastructure.
Umahi explained that the administration is adopting improved engineering standards to ensure roads have a longer lifespan and provide lasting value for Nigerians.
He cited progress on sections of the highway around the Sagamu interchange, noting that one section has already been completed while work is nearing completion on additional stretches toward Ore.
The minister added that President Tinubu had directed the Ministry of Works to apply cost-effective engineering solutions in delivering the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
He explained that extensive soil investigations led to modifications in the project’s design, reducing construction costs while maintaining engineering standards.
According to Umahi, building long bridges across every crossing would have significantly increased the overall cost of the project, making redesign necessary.
He expressed confidence that sustained investment in quality infrastructure would contribute to Nigeria’s long-term economic growth and national development.
Also speaking at the event, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Works, Akin Alabi, praised Umahi’s leadership and described his approach to infrastructure development as practical and result-oriented.
The Olu of Igbokoda, Oba Afolabi Odidiomo, welcomed the coastal highway project, saying it would improve transportation and address long-standing road challenges in the area.
The traditional ruler, however, appealed to the Federal Government to address the persistent problem of sea incursion affecting Ayetoro Community, warning that coastal erosion could threaten the new highway if adequate protective measures are not put in place.
