Wevole Ezin, Calabar
Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has declared that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project is unstoppable, asserting that neither public criticism nor political resistance will interfere with its execution.
Speaking on Monday during the official flag-off of a 65km section in Cross River State, Umahi defended the 750-kilometre project as a historic infrastructure milestone envisioned by President Bola Tinubu nearly three decades ago.
“This highway is not just a road; it is a transformative corridor for economic expansion and national unity,” he said.
The minister emphasized that the Federal Government remains fully committed to the project’s timely and efficient completion, despite recent pushback from some quarters.
He highlighted the highway’s potential to drive growth in tourism, trade, and agriculture, and affirmed that all stages are being pursued concurrently with top engineering standards.
He praised President Tinubu’s foresight and applauded Cross River Governor Bassey Otu for his partnership in realizing the project. Umahi also called on local communities to cooperate with contractors, noting that government has provided compensation and carried out consultations for affected areas.
Governor Otu, who represented President Tinubu at the event in Awi, Akamkpa Local Government Area, lauded the Federal Government’s decision to launch the Calabar section in Cross River. He said the coastal highway will revitalize the state’s economic relevance and enhance access to Nigeria’s coastal belt.
“This project means progress, not just for Cross River but for the entire southern region. It will link markets, improve logistics, and support agro-industrial growth,” Otu stated.
Also speaking, Engr. Olayinka Onafuye, Federal Controller of Works in Cross River, emphasized adherence to technical standards and the importance of community collaboration in Akamkpa and Odukpani LGAs.
HITECH Construction Company Ltd’s Managing Director, Danny Abboud, said the new section will traverse several communities before connecting to Akwa Ibom via the Calabar River Bridge.
He stressed the highway’s role as a national economic artery, constructed using durable reinforced concrete to ensure longevity and reduce congestion.
##