Breaking News: FG Commences Demolition for Lagos-Calabar Highway Amidst Criticism, Projected to Cost N4 Billion Per Kilometer

The Federal Government has initiated the demolition of properties along the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway to clear the right of way for construction, as announced by the Minister of Works, David Umahi. The move is a pivotal step in President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope roadmap, designed to bolster economic diversification.

In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Orji Uchenna, Umahi underscored the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of affected individuals. He assured that compensation for affected property owners would be promptly disbursed to minimize disruptions.

Umahi emphasized the government’s efforts to minimize environmental impact and optimize the economic viability of the coastal road project. He urged affected parties to view the demolition as a necessary sacrifice for the long-term benefit of national economic prosperity.

The minister reiterated the government’s determination to adhere to the coastline in executing the project, minimizing delays, and ensuring efficient progress. He solicited the cooperation of all stakeholders to adhere to the timeline of the demolition exercise.

The Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project holds significant promise for enhancing transportation infrastructure and fostering economic development along Nigeria’s coastline. With a projected cost of N4 billion per kilometer, the project aims to revolutionize connectivity and trade opportunities across the region.

Critics, however, have raised concerns about the environmental impact and displacement of communities along the route. Despite these criticisms, the government remains resolute in its commitment to advancing the project, emphasizing its potential to stimulate economic growth and regional integration.

The demolition marks a significant milestone in the realization of this ambitious infrastructure project, signaling the government's determination to prioritize the development of Nigeria's transportation network and economic infrastructure.