By Joy Onu
The Federal Government has temporarily opened a 30 kilometre section of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to traffic, a move aimed at easing congestion and boosting connectivity along Nigeria’s West-East corridor. The section, part of Phase 1 of the highway, was inaugurated on Friday, 12 December, by the Minister of Works, Sen. (Engr.) David Umahi, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to Mohammed A. Ahmed, Director, Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Works, the temporary opening marks a major milestone in the 750-kilometre Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, which spans nine states from Lagos to Cross River. He said the highway is expected to enhance transportation efficiency, stimulate regional economic growth, and create jobs in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The operational stretch begins at Ahmadu Bello Way Junction in Victoria Island and ends at Eleko Village Junction in Lekki, Lagos State. Constructed by Hitech Construction Africa Limited, it features reinforced dual carriage pavement, modern drainage systems, street lighting, median barriers, and relocated public utilities.
Officials said the highway will significantly reduce travel time and increase connectivity between Lagos and towns along the West-East Coast. Work on the remaining 17.474 kilometres of Phase 1 continues, with completion expected by the second quarter of 2026. Motorists have been advised to drive cautiously as final construction activities are still ongoing.
Traditional rulers, including His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdul Wasiu Omogbolahan, the Oniru of Iruland, community leaders, and government officials attended the ceremony. The Oniru praised the Federal Government for prioritizing infrastructure development in his community and acknowledged the project’s regional significance.
Legal matters surrounding the highway were also addressed. Abiodun J. Owonikoko SAN, Team Leader of the Federal Government Legal Team, said 27 court cases had been filed against the project, seven of which were resolved in the government’s favor, while most of the remaining cases were settled out of court.
Sen. Barinada Mpigi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, reaffirmed the National Assembly’s support, promising oversight and adequate funding to ensure timely completion of the highway.
Once fully completed, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is expected to transform transportation along Nigeria’s southern corridor, offering a safer, faster, and more efficient travel route while promoting economic growth and regional integration.
