Table of Contents
The Federal Government has officially announced the extension of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway to include Edo State, revealing that an additional 100-kilometre section of the project will now traverse the state.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, shared this information during the Edo State Independence Gala Night held at the State Villa in Benin City. He explained that this ambitious coastal highway project, initially envisioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu nearly five decades ago, had originally excluded Edo State from its route.
“The route was previously announced, but unfortunately, it did not include Edo State. Today, the length has increased from 700km to 750km because a miracle occurred here. The President directed that the highway must extend from Lagos to Ogun, Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and finally end in Cross River,” Umahi stated.
A statement from his media aide, Orji Uchenna Orji, quoted the minister praising the people and government of Edo State for their support of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda. Umahi assured residents that federal infrastructure projects in the state would be executed in a timely and quality manner, despite existing funding and infrastructure challenges.
He also commended Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his efforts in rehabilitating the Benin–Sapele–Warri road, referring to this stretch as a “death trap” for drivers.
While acknowledging the contractor's efforts, CBC, Umahi instructed the firm to accelerate work and provide daily progress updates to the ministry to ensure timely completion.
Governor Okpebholo, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for approving the extension of the coastal highway to Edo and for the ongoing improvements on federal roads within the state.
He described this inclusion as a clear indication of the President’s goodwill towards the people of Edo.
“Recently, I traveled through this route and was nearly brought to tears by the condition of the road. Our citizens struggle to carry out their daily activities because of these roads,” the governor said.
“The President is making his best efforts, and criticism should serve as a wake-up call for all of us. If I fulfill my responsibilities and the Federal Government fulfills its obligations, there will be no grounds for complaints,” he added.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project?
The Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project is an ambitious infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing connectivity along the coastal areas of Nigeria, initially proposed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu nearly 50 years ago.
Why was Edo State included in the highway extension?
Edo State was included in the highway extension to improve infrastructure and connectivity for its residents, following a directive from President Tinubu to ensure the highway passes through multiple states, including Edo.
What are the expected benefits of the highway extension?
The extension of the highway is expected to enhance transportation, stimulate economic growth, and improve the overall quality of life for residents in Edo State and surrounding areas.
