Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway costs N7.5bn per Km – Umahi
LAGOS, Nigeria — Minister of Works David Umahi defended the cost of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, stating that the project’s estimated cost of N7.5 billion per kilometer, approximately $5.5 million, reflects the complexity and requirements of the infrastructure.
In an exclusive interview on Arise Television, Umahi was asked to justify the high cost associated with the highway’s construction. He highlighted that Section One of the highway, spanning 47.47 kilometers, carries a total price tag of N1.067 trillion.
Umahi explained that the N7.5 billion per kilometer figure was derived by dividing the total cost of the six-lane highway to determine the cost of a standard two-lane federal highway. He stated, “A standard coastal road is going for N7.5 billion per kilometer of standard highway. However, this amount includes essential features such as shore protection, complete fillings, solar lighting throughout the route, and the planting of trees.”
The minister elaborated that the price encompasses a concrete pavement designed for a century of use without maintenance, alongside shoreline protection, retaining walls, solar lighting, flyovers, underpasses, and substantial sand filling in select areas up to 20 meters deep. “This is an investment that the President is committing to, and this is a road that is going to last for another hundred years,” Umahi asserted.
In April 2024, Umahi indicated that the road was expected to cost N4 billion per kilometer, a figure that has now nearly doubled, leading to widespread criticism. He emphasized that the coastal highway differs significantly from traditional roads due to its unique terrain and necessary features.
Looking ahead, Umahi announced that by November 2024, motorists would have the opportunity to drive from Ahmadu Bello Way in Lagos through Sections One, Two, and part of Section Four into Ondo State.
