Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway To Withstand Flooding For 50 Years, Says Umahi.
The Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, has assured Nigerians that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is being constructed with world-class durability standards, designed to withstand flooding and environmental pressures for the next 50 years.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement on Section 2 of the highway project held on Sunday in Lagos, Umahi emphasised that the road’s engineering will counter the effects of climate change and meet the needs of a modern transport corridor.
“We will make sure that our pavement level is going to counter any climate change,” the minister said, explaining that the height of the pavement would be equivalent to the first floor of many surrounding buildings.
To preserve the integrity of the highway, he noted that retaining boards are already being constructed. In addition, cable ducts are being installed to eliminate the need for future road cutting by network providers such as MTN and African Plus. “The cables are there, I saw them,” Umahi confirmed.
In a significant step towards safety and innovation, the minister revealed that the road will be equipped with closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras to ensure rapid response to incidents — within five minutes of detection. The highway will also feature a designated evacuation corridor to support emergency operations.
Highlighting the project’s eco-friendly credentials, Umahi said the use of concrete pavement would lead to zero emissions, allowing Nigeria to earn carbon credits. “There will be trees planted all through the route to make the journey scenic and enjoyable,” he added.
Addressing the complexities of the infrastructure, the minister explained how the highway will cater to industrial traffic, including that from the Dangote Refinery. A new flyover with a 60-metre span — followed by a 41.6-metre counterbalanced span — is being constructed to ease truck movement in and out of the refinery. “It’s going to be a point to behold — another tourist site,” Umahi declared.
The minister also announced plans to build relief centres along the highway, with the support of state governments. These centres will include petrol stations, supermarkets, and medical facilities, providing travellers with convenient stopover points.
Expressing gratitude, Umahi commended the stakeholders present for their unwavering support. “Some of you are not here for compensation, but because you believe in this national development,” he said.
He also praised Hitech Construction Company, the firm handling the project, for their excellence and adherence to timelines.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is set to become a transformative piece of infrastructure, promising long-term resilience, environmental sustainability, and economic growth.
