First Phase of Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to Be Completed by May 2025, Says Minister of Works
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has revealed that the initial phase of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is scheduled for completion by May 29, 2025. Following its completion, the highway will be tolled for a period of 5 to 10 years to recoup construction expenses.
During an inspection of a portion of the road that had been previously used as a dumpsite but has since been rehabilitated, Umahi expressed satisfaction with the progress. He acknowledged that concerns had been raised regarding the completion timeline, but he assured the public that the contractor, Hitech, is delivering high-quality work. He emphasized that the most challenging part of the project involved stabilizing the sand used in construction.
Umahi stated, "The first section of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will be completed by May 29, and we plan to toll it to recover the investment within 5 to 10 years."
In addition to tolling, the Federal Government has plans to maximize returns from the project by developing the surrounding areas for tourism, industrial zones, and housing. These initiatives are aimed at boosting economic activities along the highway.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is part of a broader effort to alleviate congestion at Apapa Wharf, where shallow berths have limited cargo capacity. Umahi highlighted the economic impact of this issue, noting that it has led to costly transshipment processes, resulting in substantial financial losses for Nigeria.
The Minister also underscored the importance of the seven axle roads currently under construction. These roads will support the efficient movement of goods from key industrial sites such as the Dangote Refinery and Fertilizer Plant within the Lekki Free Trade Zone. This new infrastructure will link to the Sagamu-Benin Expressway, facilitating better connectivity across the North, South-West, South-South, and South-East regions.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, a 700-kilometer project crossing nine states, is designed to improve transportation and stimulate economic growth along Nigeria’s coast. The contract for the project was awarded to Hitech Construction Company Ltd. under an Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Financing (EPC+F) model, where the contractor assumes the bulk of the financial and construction risks, with the government contributing some funding.
Construction officially commenced in March 2024, with the first phase—a 47.7-kilometer stretch starting from Ahmadu Bello Way in Lagos State—currently underway. The full 700-kilometer highway is expected to be completed over the next eight years, with multiple sections progressing as procurement, approvals, and other processes are finalized.