The minister of works, Engr. David Umahi has expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
Describing the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as one of the most critical projects in the works sector and a vital national economic pillar, Senator Umahi emphasized the importance of providing economically viable towns along the highway.
”The progress on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is due to our commitment to infrastructure development and economic growth.
”The Federal Government is engaging with host states to secure land for these towns, enabling communities near the highway to benefit economically from the project,” he said.
During a briefing with journalists, Umahi outlined the technical aspects of the construction process, noting progress in dredging, excavation, dewatering, sand filling, placement of crushed stone base, cement stabilization, drainage, and culverts.
He assured that the first phase of the highway would be completed within 36 months.
The minister also announced plans for a train station at the Ikorodu junction, providing a link to the Ikorodu-Sokoto Highway.
Senator Barinada Mpigi, the chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, and Hon. Akin Alabi, the chairman of the House Committee on Works, both promised during the inspection visit that the National Assembly would never waver in its support of securing appropriations money to guarantee the project’s prompt completion.
Federal Controller of Works, Lagos State, Engr. Mrs. O. I. Kesha assured the minister of round-the-clock supervision that the project would meet specifications and be completed promptly.
Recall that the minister recently stated that the federal government has decided to prioritize rigid concrete pavement over traditional asphalt overlay in constructing federal roads across the country.
Umahi highlighted several reasons behind the strategic shift, with durability and cost-effectiveness at the forefront.
He explained that concrete technology offers a more resilient and cost-efficient solution compared to asphalt, which has faced challenges related to cost escalation.
