The Nigerian government, through Minister of Works David Umahi, announced at a meeting with contractors in Abuja on Tuesday that the first section of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is slated for completion by May 29, 2025.

Umahi also noted that the government has allocated N10 billion in compensation for property owners affected by the necessary demolitions for the highway’s construction.

The Minister highlighted that upon completion, the project will attract investments, tourism, factories, and industries. He mentioned that the road has been redesigned to six lanes, emphasizing that these endeavors are lucrative investments with returns.

He reiterated the May 29, 2025 deadline for the first section of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway and emphasized its long-term financial viability, stating that besides land acquisition, the project will recoup its costs through tourism and industrial growth.

In reference to the administration’s three legacy projects, particularly the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway, the Minister clarified that the project has been resized to six lanes, particularly in sections two, three, and four, emphasizing the government’s commitment.

Addressing rumors of project halts, he affirmed ongoing progress, citing the completion of over four kilometers of concrete road on six lanes as evidence of continuous efforts.

The Minister explained that due to concerns raised by MTN regarding its subsea cable and feedback from the Okuaja community, the project had to be rerouted to a new alignment, diverting from both the original and gazetted routes.

However, progress continues smoothly, with work now focused on a new alignment at kilometer 25. He confirmed compensation payments nearing N10 billion. The total estimated cost of the highway for the Nigerian government stands at N15.7 trillion.