In an exclusive interview with Arise Television on Wednesday, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, reassured the public that the Landmark Beach Resort property would not face demolition as a result of the ambitious 700-kilometer coastal road project linking Lagos State to Calabar.
Umahi emphasized that no jobs would be lost due to the project, despite earlier concerns raised by the proprietor of Landmark Beach Resort, Paul Onwuanibe. Onwuanibe had expressed worry over the fate of the multimillion-dollar resort, which accommodates over 80 businesses and sustains more than 4,000 jobs directly.
The minister clarified, “Despite claims that 12,000 jobs will be lost, I told Landmark that no jobs will be lost by what we’re doing.” He further assured that the resort’s facilities would remain intact, as the project aims to reduce the corridor by 50 meters, minimizing the impact on existing structures.
Umahi addressed the issue of property rights, stating that ownership of the shoreline falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government, as per the Waterways Act and a recent Supreme Court judgment.
He noted that while the Landmark property occupies a portion of the shoreline, the government is committed to ensuring the project’s progress while respecting existing investments.
The minister also provided an update on the construction progress, highlighting the use of concrete pavement for the road and commending the efforts of Hitech Construction Company Ltd., the contractor responsible for the project.
He revealed that significant progress has already been made, with 1.3 kilometers of filling completed in the initial phase.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, which commenced construction in March, is set to traverse nine states, with spurs extending to the Northern States. This infrastructure endeavor aims to enhance connectivity and facilitate economic growth across the region.
Despite initial concerns and tensions surrounding the project, Umahi’s assurances provide a glimmer of hope for stakeholders, signaling a commitment to balance development with the preservation of existing investments and livelihoods.
