Fatimah Otunsanya
The Federal Government on Friday temporarily opened the 47.47-kilometre Section One, Phase One of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, describing the project as a “game changer” for national infrastructure.
The Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, inaugurated the section on behalf of President Bola Tinubu in Lagos.
The 750-kilometre highway, which begins at Ahmadu Bello Way in Victoria Island, Lagos, will run through Ogun, Ondo, Delta and Bayelsa states before terminating in Cross River.
Speaking at the event, Umahi said the opening marked the realisation of a 27-year dream.
He recalled that President Tinubu first opened a portion of the same section on May 26, calling it a major milestone for a project of national strategic importance.
He noted that the road features reinforced concrete pavement, CCTV coverage and other modern installations, adding that it would significantly boost cross-country connectivity, trade, job creation and economic growth.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, thanked the President for prioritising infrastructure.
He said the highway would cut travel time, link rural and urban markets, and support key economic corridors such as the Lekki Free Trade Zone.
“It is also intended to connect rural areas to urban markets and key economic zones such as the Lekki Free Trade Zone.
“With improved connectivity and reduced travel time, businesses will be able to operate more efficiently, and people will have more time to focus on their work.
“This will lead to increased productivity and economic growth,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He described the highway project as one of the most ambitious and audacious infrastructure projects since Nigeria’s independence.
Also speaking, the Oniru of Iruland, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, commended the Federal Government, describing the development as a significant milestone in national progress.
He said the temporary opening would ease movement during the festive season and reduce pressure on alternative routes.
He added that Hitech Construction Company’s Managing Director, Dany Abboud, assured that the entire 106-kilometre stretch covering Sections One and Two would be completed by December 2026.
“This is a welcome relief for commuters who have had to deal with pressure on other major roads.
“With this opening, the promise of a more convenient festive season is assured,” he said.
He noted that Dany Abboud, the Managing Director of Hitech Construction Company, the contractor handling the project, said that the entire 106km stretch of Sections One and Two of the coastal highway would be completed by December 2026.
The traditional ruler pledged continued cooperation with the government to ensure smooth execution of the project and commended Umahi and the project team for their dedication.