The Federal Government has temporarily opened the 30-kilometre completed Section I, Phase 1 of the 47.474-kilometre Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to traffic.
According to the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, this strategic move aims to ease traffic congestion during the upcoming festive periods while providing world-class road infrastructure for Nigerians.
A statement released in Abuja confirmed that Umahi opened the highway to traffic on Friday on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The 750-kilometre Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway represents one of the flagship projects under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to transform the nation’s transportation landscape.
The minister explained that the ambitious project spans nine states: Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River. It is expected to deliver numerous benefits, including increased tourism potential, job creation, regional integration, shoreline protection, and improved economic prosperity.
The temporarily opened stretch begins at the Ahmadu Bello Way Junction in Victoria Island and ends at the Eleko Village Junction in Lekki, Lagos State.
Umahi commended the contractor and relevant stakeholders, noting that the occasion demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering on its campaign promises. He emphasised that the highway is expected to have a significant positive impact on the regional economy.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Rafiu Adeladan, described the project as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s dedication to improving the nation’s infrastructure.
“This project is a critical component of our effort to drive economic growth and development, and we are committed to delivering it to Nigerians on time,” he stated.
The Federal Controller of Works for Lagos State, Engr. Olufemi Dare, characterised the project as a game-changer for the region, with the potential to transform the lives of local residents.
