Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, has projected that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will be completed by January 2026. He made this known during an inspection tour of the ongoing construction on Wednesday.

Highlighting the project’s broader impact, Umahi noted that the highway would not only improve transportation but also unlock economic opportunities across the southern corridor. He revealed that land along the route has already been allocated for tourism, housing, factories, and industrial development.

“This highway goes beyond mobility—it’s an economic gateway,” he said.

According to the minister, over 70 percent of the work has already been completed, even though the contractor has not received 70 percent of the funding. He praised the construction firm, Hitech Construction Company, for its dedication to delivering results despite financial constraints.

“It’s remarkable to see such commitment to national development. The contractor is working ahead of the funds released,” Umahi stated.

He added that a 20-kilometre stretch of the road, starting from Ahmadu Bello Way in Lagos, is expected to be completed by May 2025, and construction efforts are likely to exceed that milestone.

Commending the quality of work, Umahi highlighted that the highway’s concrete thickness was upgraded from the designed 275 millimetres to 280 millimetres, reflecting attention to long-term durability.

“The engineering standards are top-notch. Hitech is delivering beyond expectations,” he said.

He also acknowledged the support and satisfaction of the project’s financial partners—Dutch Bank and the Development Bank of Southern Africa—who were present during the inspection.

In addition, Umahi credited the Department of Bridge and Roads, along with the Lagos Controller of Works, for effective supervision of the project.

Despite the commendable progress, the minister expressed concern about residents potentially creating unauthorized access points onto the highway. He emphasized the need for well-planned access through interchanges and flyovers.

“Unregulated entry from residential areas could lead to congestion. We must include continuous retaining walls and barriers where necessary,” he cautioned.

Designed as a superhighway, the Lagos-Calabar project aims to ensure seamless movement, reduce travel time, and stimulate investment across multiple states along Nigeria’s coastline.