Nigerian Government Seals Landmark Deal for Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway
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The Nigerian government has signed a pivotal contract for the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Finance (EPC+F) of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, marking a major step forward for one of Africa’s most ambitious infrastructure projects. The deal was secured with Hitech Construction Company Nig. Ltd., enabling the contractor to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Finance to attract foreign investment for the 750-kilometre highway.
The announcement was made by Uchenna Orji, Special Adviser on Media to the Minister of Works, who stated that the agreement aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” administration’s vision to secure sustainable funding for legacy projects designed to stimulate economic growth.
A Vision Realised After 27 Years
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Works Minister Dave Umahi hailed the project as the realisation of a vision President Tinubu conceived nearly three decades ago. “A dream of about 27 years back is made flesh before us, and we are fortunate to be part of this evolving mega project, the biggest ever known in Africa—the Lagos-Calabar Superhighway,” Umahi declared. He assured that, with the political will of the president and the capabilities of Hitech Construction, the highway would be completed before the end of Tinubu’s second term.
Umahi emphasised the significance of the financial structure underpinning the project, explaining that the “F” in EPC+F allows for the infusion of foreign investment, bolstered by the Nigerian government’s 30 per cent counterpart funding. “This contract paves the way for the contractor, through the Federal Ministry of Finance, to bring in foreign investment, which will fast-track the performance of this project,” he noted, adding that the administration is committed to delivering the first section ahead of schedule.
Economic Boost and Infrastructure Expansion
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is expected to be a game-changer for Nigeria’s economy, enhancing connectivity between key coastal cities and stimulating economic activities along its route. The first phase of the project, covering 47.7 kilometres from Ahmadu Bello Way in Lagos, commenced in March 2024 and is slated for completion by May 2025. The total cost of constructing one kilometre of the road has been estimated at N4 billion.
Umahi praised Hitech Construction for the quality and speed of their work, revealing that the first section could have been completed within a year had it not been for a delay due to high settlement costs. He expressed confidence in the contractor’s performance and reiterated the administration’s commitment to meeting the project’s 36-month timeline.
A Milestone for Nigeria’s Infrastructure Ambitions
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is more than just a road; it symbolises a strategic move towards sustainable economic growth and infrastructure development in Nigeria. As the largest infrastructure project in Africa, it is poised to transform regional connectivity, boost trade, and enhance the overall economic landscape of Nigeria’s coastal cities.
With the EPC+F contract now signed, all eyes will be on the project’s progress as it moves closer to becoming a reality—fulfilling a vision that began nearly three decades ago.
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