In a strategic move to mitigate potential damage to vital telecommunication infrastructure, the Federal Government has announced significant adjustments to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.
This development comes as part of a broader effort to streamline the ambitious initiative while addressing concerns raised by stakeholders.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, unveiled these modifications during a recent meeting with contractors in Abuja. Emphasizing the government’s commitment to the project’s integrity and efficiency, Umahi disclosed that the highway’s path had been rerouted to steer clear of subsea cables owned by telecommunication giants.
This decision underscores the administration’s responsiveness to industry feedback and its proactive approach to infrastructure development.
Furthermore, the scope of the project has been revised, with the lane count reduced from ten to six lanes. This adjustment is hailed as a cost-saving measure that aims to optimize resources without compromising the highway’s functionality and longevity.
Despite scaling down the size, Umahi reassured stakeholders that progress remains steadfast, with over four kilometers of concrete road already completed on the six-lane configuration.
Addressing concerns regarding property owners affected by the construction, Umahi confirmed that the government has disbursed a total of N10 billion in compensation.
This financial provision underscores the administration’s commitment to fair and equitable treatment of those impacted by the highway’s expansion.
Moreover, efforts to expedite the project’s completion are evident, with the first 47 kilometers slated to be open to the public by May of next year.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, launched earlier this year, represents a pivotal infrastructure endeavor spanning nine states.
Designed to enhance connectivity and facilitate economic growth, the highway’s construction marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s development trajectory.
With concrete pavement and a strategic alignment, the highway is poised to serve as a vital artery linking key regions and driving socio-economic progress.
Notably, a committee was established to oversee the review, assessment, and compensation of landowners affected by the project. This proactive measure underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement throughout the construction process.
By addressing concerns and ensuring adequate compensation; the administration aims to foster goodwill and cooperation among communities impacted by the highway’s expansion.
The recent adjustments, including the rerouting of the highway and the reduction in lane count, underscore the government’s responsiveness to evolving challenges and its agility in adapting to unforeseen circumstances.
By prioritizing the protection of critical infrastructure and optimizing project resources, the administration is poised to deliver a sustainable and efficient transportation network that benefits all Nigerians.
As the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project progresses, it serves as a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to infrastructure development and economic prosperity.
With stakeholders working collaboratively towards a common goal, the highway stands as a symbol of progress and opportunity for generations to come.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
