Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, Symbol Of Nigeria's Progress- Umahi

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja

Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu (3rd Right); Minister of Works Engr. Nweze David Umahi (4th Right); Minister of state Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo (4th Left) and others during the official flag-off of 65KM:3-lane dual Carriageway component of the 750 kilometres Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway  in Cross River State recently.

The Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi has described the landmark Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project as a symbol of Nigeria's progress. 

He stated this at the flag off of Sections (3A & 3B) of the project on Monday in Calabar, Cross River State. 

The event marked the beginning of a monumental infrastructure project aimed at connecting eight coastal states across Nigeria. 

Umahi reaffirmed the Federal government’s commitment to completing the highway on schedule, with the project set to boost trade, tourism, and economic growth in the affected regions. 

He reiterated President Bola Tinubu's dedication to fulfilling his promises on infrastructure development. 

Umahi praised Hitech Construction Ltd. for their outstanding work and partnership in delivering the significant project that would benefit not only Calabar but the entire nation.

The Cross River State Governor,  Prince Bassey Otu, who represented Tinubu highlighted the historical importance of the project. 

He expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for initiating such a transformative project in an area long deprived of modern infrastructure. 

Governor Otu emphasised that the completion of the road would improve connectivity and open up significant economic opportunities for the state, thereby fostering long-term growth and development.

Minister of State for Works, Bello M. Goronyo noted that Tinubu has fulfilled part of his campaign promises, noting the critical infrastructure needs of underserved regions. 

He was excited with the continued support from communities and emphasised the collaborative efforts between the Federal and state governments in achieving national progress.

The project contractor, Mr. Danny Aboud of Hitech Construction Ltd. assured the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality road. 

He stated that using innovative concrete pavement technology will guarantee durability and longevity on the highway.

Aboud pointed out the significance of engaging the services of local labour and businesses, contributing to regional socio-economic development and job creation.

In his goodwill message, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure in Cross River State, Engr. Pius Edet Ankpo thanked the Federal Government for initiating the project.

He praised President Bola Tinubu’s visionary leadership and acknowledged the historic nature of constructing a road through forested terrain.

Ankpo advocated for the reinitiation of other key Federal road projects in the state such as the Ikom–Odukpani junction and Calabar–Itu road, which had been delayed.

He urged the Federal Government to prioritise the projects to ensure ongoing development in Cross River State.

The Youth Liaison Officer for the state, Mr. Asuquo Ukpanyang conveyed the excitement and anticipation of local communities regarding the project. 

He emphasized that the project  would not only create jobs but also drive economic participation, improving residents' standards of living.

Ukpanyang stressed the importance of involving local populations to ensure the project’s success.

Prominent figures such as Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong, an Elder Statesman, and Senator Eteng Williams, representing Cross River Central, also delivered powerful goodwill messages. 

Both leaders expressed profound gratitude to the Federal Government and shared how the hopes of Cross Riverians are being renewed through the project. 

They pledged strong support for the initiative, recognizing its transformative potential for the region. 

Prof. Nyong commended the Federal Government’s commitment to lasting development in the South-South, while Senator Williams highlighted the project’s role in unlocking new trade and economic opportunities for Cross River State and neighboring regions.

Additional goodwill messages were delivered by Former Senator Ita Giwa and SSA to the President on Committee Engagement, Hon. Gift Johnbull.

Senator Giwa praised the Federal government for spearheading the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, noting its potential to create new economic opportunities. 

Hon. Johnbull hinted the broader importance of the project in line with President Tinubu’s ongoing commitment to nationwide infrastructure development.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi was confident in the project’s success and reaffirmed the Federal government’s commitment to ensuring the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway is completed to the highest standards, benefiting not only Cross River State but the entire nation. 

He reaffirmed the Ministry of Works’ dedication to providing the necessary oversight and support for the project’s successful execution.

The launch of Sections 3A & 3B of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway signals a transformative infrastructure project that will greatly enhance the lives of Nigerians, particularly in the South-South region. 

With the combined efforts of the Federal Government, state authorities, contractors, and local communities, the successful completion of this critical initiative is assured.

The project is set to be a key driver of Nigeria’s long-term economic growth, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s infrastructure development.

This was contained in a statement by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Works, Mohammed A Ahmed on Tuesday in Abuja.