On Saturday, May 31, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu officially commissioned the first completed section of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s infrastructure development. This inaugural segment spans 30 kilometers, extending from Ahmadu Bello Way to Eleko Village in Lagos State. The event was part of the activities commemorating the second anniversary of President Tinubu’s administration.
🚧 Project Overview
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is an ambitious 700-kilometer infrastructure project designed to connect Lagos to Calabar, traversing eight coastal states: Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River. The highway aims to enhance regional connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and promote tourism along Nigeria’s coastline. The project is being executed in phases, with the first phase commencing in March 2024. Hitech Construction Company Ltd. is handling the construction, with an expected completion timeline of eight years.
🗣️ Statements from the Commissioning Ceremony
During the commissioning ceremony held in Lagos, President Tinubu expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the project, stating:
“It is a great honor for me and a sense of fulfilment to stand before you to commission the completed part of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Corridor. This is Phase 1, Section 1 from Ahmadu Bello Way of the 750km iconic project.”
He emphasized the importance of the highway in boosting economic activities and improving the quality of life for Nigerians.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, highlighted the government’s commitment to compensating affected residents, noting that ₦18 billion was disbursed for Section 1 of the highway. He also addressed concerns regarding the Landmark Beach Resort, assuring that the infrastructure was preserved during construction.
🌍 Economic and Social Impact
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is projected to contribute up to $12 billion annually to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product within its first decade. The highway is expected to reduce transportation costs, shorten travel times, stimulate local economies, and create extensive employment opportunities for Nigerians.
The commissioning of the first section of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway represents a significant step towards enhancing Nigeria’s infrastructure and economic development. As the project progresses, it is expected to further unify the nation’s coastal regions and unlock new opportunities for growth and prosperity.
