Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway development

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is a 700-kilometer infrastructure project in Nigeria, valued at approximately N15.36 trillion. Developed under a Public-Private Partnership model, the highway aims to connect nine coastal states from Victoria Island to Calabar to stimulate regional trade and economic transformation. While construction officially commenced in March 2024, the project has faced scrutiny regarding environmental accountability, financial transparency, and land rights disputes.

As construction continues on the Lagos section, which includes 20 major bridges, the Nigerian Federal Government has issued a two-week ultimatum regarding safety and security. Officials have warned of a potential shutdown of the Lagos portion of the highway if there is no significant improvement in safety compliance, prevention of vandalism, and the cessation of illegal activities. Concerns have been raised regarding motorists exceeding the 30km/h speed limit in active construction zones.

Recent developments have introduced a realignment controversy. The Federal Ministry of Works has reportedly planned to realign the highway to pass through Edo State, which would bypass approximately 100km of the Ondo State coastline. While the Ministry has cited geotechnical and soil challenges along the Ondo coast as reasons for this change, critics, including Senior Advocate of Nigeria Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, argue that diverting the road inland undermines the strategic purpose of a coastal corridor intended to stimulate maritime, tourism, and industrial development.

Security concerns persist as Minister of Works David Umahi has threatened to shut the Lagos section due to safety violations, including speeding, illegal U-turns, and unauthorized motorcycle use. Additionally, reports of vandalism, such as the theft of fencing and manhole covers, have been noted. Critics suggest that increased surveillance and security are more appropriate responses than road closures.