By Joke Kujenya
AS PART OF his year-one in office anniversary ceremony held today, President Bola Tinubu officially commenced the construction of the ambitious 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
He described it as a monumental infrastructure project, featuring a 10-lane superhighway which is set to revolutionize transportation across nine states, enhance economic growth, and significantly improve the quality of life for millions of Nigerians.
The highway, which stretches from Lagos to Cross River State, will connect multiple communities, fostering trade, boosting tourism, and creating new opportunities.
President Tinubu, speaking from the project site on Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, emphasized the transformative potential of this project. “This road is more than an infrastructure project; it is a symbol of hope, unity, and prosperity,” he stated.
He drew parallels to Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, a 2,600km route that generates €3 billion annually in tourism revenue, highlighting the immense economic potential of the Lagos-Calabar highway. The project will traverse key states, including Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River, linking major economic hubs and enhancing regional connectivity.
The President expressed gratitude to the engineers, workers, and stakeholders whose dedication has brought the project to this pivotal stage. “Your tireless efforts and expertise are the driving forces behind this project’s launch,” he commended.
In addition to the coastal highway, President Tinubu virtually flagged off the design and procurement for the 1,000km Sokoto-Badagry Highway, which will connect Sokoto to Lagos, and the 461km Enugu-Abakaliki-Ogoja Road, linking several states to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
These projects form part of a comprehensive infrastructure overhaul aimed at boosting Nigeria’s economic landscape, he stressed.
The President also acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly the impact on properties and livelihoods and assured the public of the government’s commitment to fair compensation and support. “We understand the sacrifices required, and we will ensure that those affected are adequately compensated,” he pledged.
The project employs the EPC+F (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Plus Finance) model, a commendable approach involving federal investment and private sector participation.
This collaboration aims to ensure timely and high-quality delivery of the project.
Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, received special praise from President Tinubu for his dedication and oversight.
The President also lauded the contributions of Hitech Construction Company, the project’s contractor, highlighting their successful efforts in combating coastal erosion along the Lagos shoreline.
“This project is a testament to our determination to build a prosperous nation,” President Tinubu declared. “We are committed to realizing this dream and setting a precedent for future infrastructure projects.”
The coastal highway is expected to create thousands of direct jobs and tens of thousands of indirect employment opportunities. It will facilitate economic development, provide improved access to markets, and enhance the movement of goods and people across the country.
The Oniru of Iruland, Oba Abdulwasiu Lawal, assured the President of the community’s support, emphasizing the local sacrifices made for the project’s realization and calling for adequate compensation.
Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara, and Hope Uzodinma of Imo expressed their strong support, recognizing the project’s potential to drive significant economic and social benefits.
As part of the administration’s first anniversary activities, President Tinubu also flagged off the massive rehabilitation of 330 roads and bridges nationwide.
He said this comprehensive infrastructure plan underscores his government’s commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s transportation network and stimulating economic growth.
The President concluded the ceremony with a call to action: “Let the construction begin. Together, we will build a brighter future for Nigeria.”
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