The Federal Government has announced that Section One of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway is scheduled for commissioning by May 20, 2026. The assurance was given by the Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, during an inspection of the project on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
The 3-kilometre stretch under inspection is nearing completion, with sub-filling expected to conclude within days. Once open, motorists will be able to travel seamlessly from Ahmadu Bello Way through Lekki. Progress on this section demonstrates the administration’s commitment to transformative infrastructure despite difficult terrain and significant engineering challenges, including deep soil pits averaging 18 to 21 metres.
The minister praised HITECH Construction Company for its resilience, noting that the contractor is addressing unexpected soil conditions at its own cost without an upward review of the project sum. He outlined a tight timeline: consolidation tests in March, followed by the placement of Continuously Reinforced Concrete Pavement (CRCP) in April, with full commissioning targeted for May 20.
Section Two of the coastal corridor, extending toward the Dangote Refinery, is also progressing and is expected to be completed before the end of the year. All bridges across both sections are projected for completion by April next year.
Minister Umahi condemned acts of vandalism along the route, including the cutting of metal fences and dumping refuse into manholes, calling them dangerous and destructive. He commended security agencies for their vigilance and warned that offenders will be prosecuted immediately. Temporary sealing measures for manholes are being implemented.
He linked the project’s steady advancement to the broader infrastructure agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, stating that national development hinges on such deliverables. The minister also highlighted improved macroeconomic indicators—including foreign reserves and reduced inflation—as evidence of deliberate policy direction, urging Nigerians to support ongoing reforms.
On contractor accountability, the minister issued a directive that all contractors holding Advance Payment Guarantees must return to site and utilise the funds, warning that future certificate payments will be withheld from those who have held government advances for years without resuming work.
The inspection was attended by senior presidential aides, including the Senior Special Assistants to the President on Community Engagement for the South West and South East regions.
