The Federal Government has announced plans to commence tolling on Section 1 of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway by December this year, as revealed by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi.

Umahi made this disclosure during an interview for an upcoming State House documentary marking President Bola Tinubu's second anniversary in office.

"By December, we will toll Section 1 of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway. We project a 10-year return on investment," the minister stated.

According to Umahi, the highway features advanced infrastructure including solar-powered lighting and CCTV systems, while also offering carbon credit advantages. "It is more than a road; it is an economic corridor and a catalyst for regional growth," he emphasized.

Progress on Construction

The minister reported significant progress on the project, with 30 kilometres of Section 1 already completed and an additional 10 kilometres in Section 2 nearing delivery. Both segments feature six-lane concrete-paved carriageways designed to meet modern standards for safety and durability.

Umahi further revealed that construction had commenced on Sections 3 and 3B of the highway, spanning a total of 65 kilometres—38 kilometres in Cross River State and 27 kilometres in Akwa Ibom.

"Just days ago, we flagged off Sections 3 and 3B. The host communities' excitement speaks to these projects' transformative impact," the minister noted.

Broader Infrastructure Vision

The Works Minister also highlighted the administration's renewed focus on the Sokoto-Badagry superhighway, which he described as part of a broader vision dating back to colonial-era trade plans.

"The Trans-Saharan trade route dates back to colonial-era planning. President Tinubu is now bringing these long-abandoned visions to life," Umahi explained.

Political Support

On the political front, Umahi expressed confidence in President Tinubu's re-election prospects, revealing that all South-East governors were aligned in their support for the president's second-term bid.

The minister added that discussions were underway to convene a political summit that would unite South-East leaders, including Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, in support of Tinubu's 2027 ambition.