The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project is being constructed with advanced engineering standards to withstand flooding for the next 50 years. Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, gave this assurance during a stakeholder engagement on Section 2 of the project held on Sunday in Lagos.

Umahi emphasized that the pavement level of the highway will be raised significantly to counter the effects of climate change. He noted that the road’s elevation would even exceed the first-floor level of many nearby buildings. According to him, “We will make sure that our pavement level is going to counter any climate change.”

To enhance durability and efficiency, the highway will feature retaining boards and built-in cable ducts. This will prevent future road excavations by telecom and utility providers. Umahi pointed out that companies like MTN and African Plus won’t need to dig up the road, as the necessary cable ducts are already included.

In terms of security, the highway will be equipped with CCTV cameras, enabling emergency services to respond within five minutes. Additionally, the use of concrete pavement is aimed at minimizing carbon emissions, which could allow Nigeria to earn carbon credits. Umahi highlighted that the concrete pavement produces no emissions and supports the country’s environmental goals.

Environmental sustainability is also a major component of the project. Trees will be planted along the entire stretch to provide greenery and help offset carbon impact. The plan also includes a significant flyover near the Dangote Refinery, with a 60-meter clearance for trucks and a 41.6-meter counterbalance span. Umahi described this part of the project as a potential tourist attraction.

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is expected to transform connectivity, boost tourism, and stimulate economic growth along Nigeria’s southern corridor.