Works Minister Dave Umahi Discloses Details of the Ambitious Project
Nigeria’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) has greenlit a monumental contract worth N1.06 trillion for the construction of the first phase of a coastal road stretching from Lagos to eight other states.
Nigeria's Fec Approves N1.06 Trillion Contract For Coastal Road Construction 7
The announcement was made by Works Minister Dave Umahi following a FEC meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja.
Umahi revealed that the approved contract pertains to the initial phase of the ambitious 700-kilometer coastal road project, which spans nine states and includes two spurs extending to northern states.
The first phase, totaling 47.47 kilometers, will feature a dual carriageway with five lanes on each side, accompanied by a train track running down the middle, all constructed with concrete.
Highlighting the project’s significance, Umahi outlined its route, which traverses key states including Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom, culminating in Cross River. He emphasized the strategic importance of the road, linking vital economic hubs and facilitating trade and transportation across regions.
The minister further explained that due to funding challenges and the imperative to expedite the project’s commencement, the federal government intervened to finance the first phase. Additionally, Umahi noted adjustments to the road’s alignment to mitigate potential litigation issues, a move swiftly approved by President Tinubu.
Moreover, Umahi addressed the broader context of infrastructure development in Nigeria, citing escalating construction material costs and the need to revitalize stalled projects.
Notable among these are the augmentation of the Kano-Maiduguri road and several maintenance initiatives across various states, reflecting the government’s commitment to infrastructure revitalization and economic development.
The FEC’s approval of the coastal road project underscores Nigeria’s determination to enhance connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and address longstanding infrastructure deficits.
With construction set to commence imminently, anticipation is high for the transformative impact of this monumental endeavor on Nigeria’s transportation landscape and socio-economic trajectory.
