Why Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is flooded — Umahi

The Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, has explained that water retention and flooding observed on some sections of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway are linked to design provisions for a future railway component of the project.

Umahi gave the explanation on Friday during an inspection tour of Sections One and Two of the highway with members of the National Assembly to assess the progress of construction work.

The minister was responding to concerns raised by road users and critics following reports of flooding and potholes along some parts of the coastal road.

According to him, the median of the highway was designed to accommodate a railway line, resulting in the creation of a wide space where water had accumulated pending the commencement of the rail project.

“The median was designed for trains. What people see there is about 25 metres wide, almost like another dual carriageway. The pits in that area were excavated and sand-filled,” Umahi said.

He explained that although the railway component was expected to begin immediately, delays in its commencement had led the ministry to direct the contractor to provide additional drainage channels to connect the median with the existing drainage system.

Umahi acknowledged that some depressed areas along the road corridor had experienced water retention but assured Nigerians that corrective measures were already being implemented.

He said the project would not be abandoned and would be completed within the planned timeframe despite challenges encountered during construction.

The minister disclosed that Section One of the highway, covering 47 kilometres and designed as a six-lane road, had been completed, while Section Two, spanning 55 kilometres, was expected to be substantially completed by November.

He added that work was progressing on other sections located in Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Ogun and Ondo states, although difficult terrain, swampy areas and environmental considerations had required some redesigns and route adjustments.

Umahi commended Hitech Construction Company for sustaining work on several sections despite delayed payments, describing the contractor’s commitment as a demonstration of partnership in national development.

He also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to completing its major legacy road projects by 2031, including the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway and other federal road initiatives across the country.

The minister urged Nigerians to continue supporting the administration’s infrastructure efforts, saying the projects were aimed at improving connectivity and boosting economic development.