President Bola Tinubu has announced that 147 structures in Lagos will be affected by the construction of the service lane for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, with only five facing full demolition. The remaining 142 buildings will experience minimal impact, and compensation will be paid where necessary.
Stakeholder Engagement and Project Flag-Off
The announcement was made on Sunday during a stakeholder engagement and the official flag-off of repair works on Eko Bridge, Marine Bridge, and the flooded section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu represented President Tinubu at the event, which gathered federal and state officials to launch the repair works.
Tinubu explained that the engagement was organized to carry residents and stakeholders along as work continues on the massive infrastructure projects across Lagos. He expressed satisfaction with the turnout, stating, "Today, in particular, is a day on which we have had extensive stakeholder engagement. We are truly happy with the turnout."
Details of Affected Structures
According to the President, only five structures will be fully affected by the service lane construction, while the remaining 142 will only experience minimal impact. This clarification aims to reassure property owners who may be worried about the project's scope.
Engineers have mapped the projected alignment for the 700-kilometer Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway route, identifying properties slated for minimal structural adjustments and full compensation. The President assured affected owners that compensation would be paid where necessary, saying, "It will be given to you at the right time."
Government's Infrastructure Investments
Tinubu highlighted the Federal Government's ongoing investments in road infrastructure across Lagos. He described Eko Bridge as one of the oldest bridges built after Nigeria gained independence, while noting that Marine Bridge remains a key route connecting traffic to the Lagos seaports.
He urged the Lagos State Government to continue pursuing development across every part of the state. "As a government, we must acknowledge and appreciate the efforts that have been made. This is about recognising the real work on the ground," he said.
Appreciation and Future Benefits
The President thanked residents and stakeholders for participating in discussions whenever government projects require public engagement. He also praised the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, for driving major road projects across the country.
Tinubu emphasized the need for collective sacrifice, stating, "For all of us to enjoy the full benefit of infrastructure, we have to shift a bit, so that it becomes an asset that will outlive all of us." He acknowledged that criticism is sometimes necessary but also called for recognition and support where deserved.
Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Overview
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is one of the Federal Government's biggest infrastructure projects. The highway is expected to stretch about 700 kilometres, linking Lagos with several coastal states before terminating in Calabar, Cross River State.
Government officials say the project is designed to improve connectivity, boost tourism, ease transportation, and support economic activities along Nigeria's coastline. The flag-off of repair works on the bridges and expressway is part of broader efforts to enhance infrastructure in Lagos and beyond.
