NASS Reaffirms Support for Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway as Lawmakers Inspect Project

The National Assembly has reiterated its full backing for the ongoing Lagos–Calabar coastal highway project, assuring continued legislative support as construction progresses.

Senator Barinada Mpigi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, gave the assurance on Sunday during an inspection of the Calabar segment of the project. He praised the quality of work delivered so far, noting that the highway would significantly reshape Nigeria’s economic landscape when completed.

According to Mpigi, the project will drastically reduce travel time, stimulate development along its route, and boost the nation’s tourism potential.

He also commended the contractor, HITECH, describing the company as a “worthy partner” for deploying top-tier equipment and maintaining high construction standards.

“HITECH, I commend you very highly. You are a developmental partner to the building of our nation, and anybody who says otherwise should come and do what you are doing,” Mpigi said.

“I am not surprised with what you are doing now because you surprised the world with the reclamation of Bar Beach that threatened Lagos for years. The high-caliber equipment you have in Lagos surprised all of us from the NASS, and I think Nigeria should continue to patronise you.”

House of Representatives member Alex Egbuna, who represents Abi/Sakura Federal Constituency, said the project exceeded his expectations.

“When we heard about the conception of this project, we didn’t believe it because of our past experiences. But with what I am seeing here today, I am surprised,” he stated, while praising President Bola Tinubu’s vision and Works Minister Dave Umahi’s supervision.
“What we need to do at this point is to give the President 100 per cent support and also ensure his re-election in 2027.”

Meanwhile, the Federal Controller of Works in Cross River State, Yinka Onafuye, disclosed that N1 billion has already been paid out as compensation to property owners affected by the project in Akamkpa and Odukpani.

He explained that compensation remains ongoing, with between 700 and 1,000 people already receiving payments through their banks.
“The ministry is partnering with the banks to open accounts for individuals that do not have any bank account,” he added.

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