FG Allocates N18bn For Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Compensation, Addresses Infrastructure Challenges

The Federal Government of Nigeria has allocated N18 billion to compensate property owners affected by the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway construction, Minister of Works David Umahi announced on Sunday. Speaking at a stakeholder engagement, Umahi assured that all property owners listed for section 1 of the road would be compensated within the next 10 days. Initially set at N8 billion, the compensation budget increased following assessments, with transparency measures in place to publish details, including names and payment amounts.

Despite frustrations, Umahi noted the legal obligation to compensate affected property owners. “My hands are tied by the law,” he stated, indicating that 50 percent of payments had already been disbursed. He directed the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Olukorede Keisha, to expedite payments without further approvals from the Federal Executive Council, prioritizing those needing funds for relocation.

Umahi also addressed terminated projects and delays with contractors. Contracts for sections of the Lokoja-Benin corridor and phase two of the Lagos-Ibadan project were revoked and are being reassigned through selective tendering. A similar fate may befall contractors delaying section three of the Kano-Maiduguri project. “I would rather be strict than let people suffer from unproductive projects,” he asserted, reiterating his commitment to accountability and efficiency.

The minister highlighted pressing concerns regarding Nigeria’s aging bridge infrastructure, including structural decay in the Third Mainland Bridge due to saltwater corrosion. With some bridges over 50 years old and rarely maintained, Umahi emphasized the need for urgent intervention. He cited that Julius Berger, an independent consultant, is now assessing the bridges, with the goal of presenting findings to the federal government and the National Assembly to secure emergency funding.

In response to equipment inadequacies among some contractors, Umahi warned that contracts would be revoked if promised equipment was not on-site. He also commended the National Assembly for its proactive approach to the 2025 budget and expressed optimism about achieving key infrastructure goals with ongoing legislative support.