FG heeds Obong’s plea, begins construction of Lagos-Calabar highway from Calabar

The Federal Government has heeded the call from Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu v, who pleaded that the construction of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway should commence simultaneously from both ends of Calabar and Lagos.

The Obong in addressing journalists in his palace last week said it would abridge the project delivery time and the risks of inflation.

He had also called on the government to hire many competent engineers and contractors to handle the project to enable swift completion.

The Minister of works, David Umahi announced yesterday that the construction will start from Calabar and Akwa Ibom ends simultaneously and immediately on section three of the coastal highway.

He also disclosed that section four will commence from Akwa Ibom at the same time, pending the completion of the procurement process.

Umahi spoke during a meeting with representatives from communities along the road’s alignment between Eko Atlantic (Chainage Zero) and Eleko (Chainage 47.4 km) in Lagos.

“Let me announce also that Mr President has directed that section three that is starting from Calabar and section four that is starting from Akwa Ibom should commence immediately; and so, we are in the process of concluding the procurement.

“And for those who have been saying why not start these roads in Calabar, one, the zero point is Lagos and what wrong has Lagos done to these people?

“However, an impartial President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Bola Tinubu, has directed that section three and four be started from the end of the project. So while this is moving, the other one will be moving.

“I’m sure that sections five and six will also start in places like Port Harcourt and Bayelsa,” Umahi said.