Minister of Works David Umahi has vigorously defended the financial cost of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.
He revealed that a standard kilometer of the coastal road costs approximately ₦7.5 billion (roughly $5.5 million).
Umahi provided the financial breakdown during an exclusive media interview to address widespread public inquiries regarding project expenditures.
He explained that Section One of the massive highway spans 47.47 kilometers and totals ₦1.067 trillion.
Consequently, the minister emphasized that the extensive budget reflects heavy marine terrain challenges rather than standard road construction expenses.
Comprehensive Engineering Architecture Justifies High Expenditure
Addressing critics, Umahi clarified that the multi-billion naira cost covers comprehensive infrastructure development beyond basic asphalt paving.
Extensive Land Reclamation: The budget accounts for massive soil filling and advanced shore protection systems.
Integrated Amenities: Projects include continuous solar street lighting, comprehensive drainage networks, and aesthetic tree planting.
Concrete Durability: Built with reinforced concrete pavement, the highway is engineered to withstand coastal erosion and heavy vehicular traffic.
Furthermore, the minister announced that motorists will soon test-drive completed portions stretching from Lagos through Ondo State.
Private Investors Queue Up for Toll Concessions
Shifting to economic viability, Umahi revealed that private financial institutions and investors are already queuing to acquire toll concessions.
He explained that investors are eager to refund the federal government upon project completion to manage toll operations.
“Private partners recognize the immense economic value and long-term viability of this coastal corridor,” Umahi stated.
Meanwhile, transport unions and commuters have urged the ministry to accelerate construction milestones to ease regional transit bottlenecks.
Finally, the federal government maintains that the coastal highway will significantly boost trade connectivity across southern coastal states.
