INTRODUCING THE NEW LAGOS-CALABAR COASTAL ROAD PROJECT BY DENNIS ISONG
INTRODUCING THE NEW LAGOS-CALABAR COASTAL ROAD PROJECT BY DENNIS ISONG
OVERVIEW
Nigeria’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) has given the green light to a groundbreaking infrastructure project: the construction of the first phase of a coastal road that will link Lagos with eight other states.
This significant investment, estimated at N1.06 trillion, underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing transportation networks and promoting economic growth across the region.
Nigeria, a nation endowed with abundant natural resources and enormous potential, has long struggled with the problem of poor infrastructure impeding its socioeconomic development.
But with the massive Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Project, a ray of optimism appears.
This project, which is expected to transform transport networks, increase trade, and foster regional development, is a major step towards achieving Nigeria’s goal of becoming a modern, interconnected country.
SPECIFICATIONS
The initial phase of the coastal road encompasses a 47.47-kilometer stretch that will feature a dual carriageway, with five lanes on each side and a train track running through the middle.
This ambitious design aims to facilitate both vehicular and rail transport, offering a robust solution to Nigeria’s growing transportation needs.
The broader coastal road project extends across nine states: Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Port Harcourt, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River.
Additionally, there are two spurs that connect to northern states, thereby increasing the road’s reach and utility.
The construction will employ concrete, ensuring durability and longevity.
The Lagos-Calabar coastal road project aims to enhance transport networks along the southern coastline that stretches from Lagos through the eight coastal states up to Cross River is the goal of the massive infrastructure project.
In order to connect important urban centers, industrial hubs, and seaports along the southern coast, a new road roughly 700 kilometers in length will be constructed.
This route will connect Lagos to Calabar. Beginning in the Lekki Deep Seaport in Lagos, the road passes through the following states: Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom.
The first phase of the coastal road, spanning 47.47 kilometres with five lanes on each side and a train track in the middle, is set to be built under a N1.06 trillion contract that was approved.
This project is a strategic investment in the nation’s infrastructure that aligns with the MDGs.
The project’s improved connection and shorter travel times across important economic zones will promote regional integration, ease trade, and boost economic growth.
Furthermore, the project is anticipated to yield extensive socio-economic advantages, such as the generation of job opportunities, the encouragement of tourism, and the improvement of accessibility to vital services for the villages en route.
The construction of a coastal road between Lagos and Calabar has the potential to reveal the nation’s latent productivity in its hinterlands and coastal districts.
For companies of all sizes, better market access and shorter travel times are all benefits of improved transportation infrastructure.
Thus, commerce, investment, and economic diversification are all accelerated.
Furthermore, the Lagos-Calabar coastal route bridges the rural-urban divide, promoting equitable development and lowering income disparities by integrating isolated communities into national and regional supply chains.
PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION
High Tech Construction African Limited has been selected to handle the procurement and funding for the project.
This firm’s expertise and track record in large-scale infrastructure development make it well-suited for the task.
However, constructing such a massive infrastructure comes with its challenges.
One of the primary concerns is realigning the road to avoid litigation, which could delay the project.
Furthermore, there is an urgency to start construction promptly to safeguard the communities along the corridor from potential environmental impacts and disruptions.
Situated on an impressive 1,500 hectares (roughly twice the size of the current Victoria Island) in the Ibeju-Lekki axis of Lagos, the Lagos New Town (LNT) project is one of these communities that stands to benefit immensely from the opportunities of enhanced connectivity.
Building the Lagos-Calabar coastal road will make it easier to incorporate the LNT into national and regional transport systems, improving its accessibility and interconnectivity.
This integration may serve as a catalyst for additional advancements in social improvement, economic expansion, and infrastructure.
The LNT offers an enticing opportunity for those looking to make significant profits on their real estate ventures.
The region attracts expansion due to its advantageous position and improved accessibility, which in turn leads to a rise in economic activity.
Its close proximity to the recent infrastructure projects along the Ibeju-Lekki axis fosters a climate that is ideal for unmatched prospects to take advantage of the potential demand for upscale residential and commercial spaces.
In addition, the Lagos-Calabar coastal road has established Lagos New Town as a vibrant center in Nigeria’s coastal region, where investors can benefit from being at the vanguard of a revolution in the industry.
It is a given that there will be a profitable return on investment.
ADDRESSING CHALLENGES
The construction of the coastal road takes place amid fluctuating construction material prices and a broader context of road infrastructure development in Nigeria.
Previous projects awarded between 2006 and 2018 have required review and augmentation due to these price increases.
The FEC has acknowledged this and is taking measures to ensure that the Lagos Coastal Road project stays on track despite such challenges.
To that end, the government has mandated a review of over 1,000 road projects to ensure their viability.
This directive, issued by the President, aims to align these projects with current market conditions and guarantee their successful completion.
IMPACT AND OUTLOOK
The Lagos Coastal Road has the potential to transform transportation in Nigeria.
By connecting nine states and providing dual-purpose infrastructure for vehicles and trains, the project is poised to foster economic growth, ease traffic congestion, and improve the overall quality of life for Nigerians.
Moreover, the project’s success could serve as a blueprint for future infrastructure developments across the country, demonstrating how strategic investment and comprehensive planning can drive national progress.
With the Federal Executive Council’s approval and High Tech Construction African Limited’s commitment, the Lagos Coastal Road is on course to reshape Nigeria’s transportation landscape and herald a new era of connectivity.
Dennis Isong is a TOP REALTOR IN LAGOS.He Helps Nigerians in Diaspora to Own Property In Lagos Nigeria STRESS-FREE. For Questions WhatsApp/Call 2348164741041