Federal Government Reverts Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to Original Route to Protect Submarine Cables

In a recent development, the Minister of Labour, Dave Umahi, announced that the Federal Government has made the decision to revert the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project back to its original route.

This decision comes as a result of concerns raised by stakeholders, including representatives of telecommunications companies and residents of the Okun Ajah Community, regarding the potential damage to critical infrastructure.

The original route alignment will ensure the protection of vital submarine cables like the 2Africa submarine cable and West African Cable Systems (WACS), which are crucial for national security.

Umahi revealed that the new alignment would have led to the demolition of 490 houses, while reverting to the old alignment would require demolishing 750 illegally built houses.

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, spanning 700 kilometers and passing through nine states, aims to transform transportation infrastructure along the Nigerian coastline.

Challenges and criticisms have been raised against the project since its inception, with notable figures like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi expressing skepticism about its execution.

The Federal Government initiated the construction in March 2024, starting with the first phase of the project covering 47.47 kilometers from Lagos.

Umahi’s announcement underscores the commitment of the government to address concerns raised by stakeholders and ensure the successful implementation of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.