‘Even Enemies Will Testify’ — Umahi Hails Lagos-Calabar Highway as Tinubu’s Best Gift

Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has described the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as one of the major achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying even critics of the government would acknowledge its impact.

Umahi made the remarks on Monday during the flag-off of the dualisation of the Ibadan–Ijebu-Ode Road at the Open Field of Legacy Estate along the Idi-Ayunre axis.

According to the minister, the Lagos-Calabar Highway has significantly reduced travel time for residents and businesses in Lagos.

He said a journey from Epe to Lagos that previously took between seven and eight hours can now reportedly be completed in about 15 minutes.

“Today, within 15 minutes, you will move from VI straight down to Epe and to the Lekki Seaport; this is a miracle,” Umahi said.

The minister also defended the procurement process for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway following criticism over the selection of the contractor.

Umahi explained that Nigerian procurement laws provide for different methods, including special, restrictive and open procurement, arguing that the government used special procurement based on the contractor’s experience and track record.

He specifically cited the contractor’s involvement in projects designed to address challenges posed by the Atlantic Ocean, arguing that the company was suitably qualified to handle the coastal highway.

Umahi also dismissed claims that the Tinubu administration was concentrating on new projects while neglecting existing roads.

He said the government was working on legacy roads across the country, noting that about 95 per cent of the administration’s major legacy projects pass through existing road corridors that previously suffered from poor conditions.

The minister spoke as the Federal Government officially commenced the dualisation of the Ibadan–Ijebu-Ode corridor, a major route connecting Oyo and Ogun states.

The road is expected to improve the movement of people, agricultural produce, goods and services while strengthening economic activities across the South-West.