ABUJA, Nigeria — Minister of Works David Umahi has defended the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, dismissing criticism of the initiative and describing opposition to the project as driven by jealousy over what he called the achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Umahi said the coastal highway remains one of the Federal Government’s flagship infrastructure projects and is designed to stimulate economic growth, improve regional connectivity and enhance transportation along Nigeria’s southern corridor. He maintained that the project would deliver significant long-term benefits despite concerns raised by some stakeholders.
The minister argued that criticisms directed at the project fail to acknowledge its strategic importance to national development. According to him, the highway is expected to promote trade, tourism, investment and industrial activities while creating employment opportunities during both the construction and operational phases.
Umahi reiterated that the Federal Government remains committed to completing the project in line with established engineering standards and contractual obligations. He assured Nigerians that the administration would continue implementing major infrastructure projects aimed at improving road networks and supporting economic expansion across the country.
Responding to criticisms surrounding the highway, the minister insisted that the government had acted within the law and followed due process in executing the project. He maintained that the administration would not be distracted by negative comments and would remain focused on delivering infrastructure capable of transforming the nation’s economy.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is one of several major road projects being undertaken by the Federal Ministry of Works as part of broader efforts to modernise Nigeria’s transport infrastructure. Government officials have repeatedly described the project as a strategic investment intended to improve mobility, facilitate commerce and strengthen links between coastal states.
The project, however, has generated public debate, with some stakeholders expressing concerns over issues including cost, environmental impact, alignment and compensation for affected property owners. Others have welcomed the initiative, arguing that it could significantly improve transportation and economic activities along the coastal corridor.
Umahi urged Nigerians to assess the project based on its long-term developmental value rather than political considerations. He expressed confidence that the completed highway would stand as a lasting national asset capable of supporting economic growth and improving connectivity for future generations.
The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding and rehabilitating critical infrastructure across the country, stating that improved road networks remain essential to national development, investment, job creation and the movement of people and goods.
