President Tinubu Commissions Lagos-Calabar Coastal Superhighway and Multiple Infrastructure Projects Nationwide
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu officially commissioned the first completed segment of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Superhighway yesterday, marking a key moment in Nigeria’s infrastructural development.
He hailed the highway as a critical lifeline that will stimulate trade, boost tourism, and foster greater national cohesion across the coastal regions.
The commissioning ceremony, held in Lagos, coincided with the celebration of the second anniversary of President Tinubu’s administration. Beyond this key project, the President also virtually inaugurated numerous other completed infrastructure developments scattered across the country.
Furthermore, he launched the commencement of several new projects under his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, signaling an ambitious phase of continued national transformation.
In his address during the event, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering dedication to promoting local content and advancing technology transfer, underscoring the importance of inclusive development that benefits all Nigerians.
To this end, he issued clear directives to the Minister of Works, David Umahi, and other ministers responsible for infrastructure projects, mandating strict enforcement of regulations concerning local participation, workforce training, and the adoption of new technologies.
The President issued a stern warning to developers, stressing the Federal Government’s resolve to enforce setback regulations rigorously.
“If not for anything else, then for the good of the nation. Developers who proceed without obtaining the necessary approvals will not be compensated. We have gazetted and published the setback requirements, and we intend to enforce them fully,” he declared.
He also emphasized that infrastructure should not be viewed simply as “brick and mortar” constructions but as foundational pillars driving sustainable economic growth, job creation, expanding opportunities, and fostering national unity.
President Tinubu took a moment to acknowledge the crucial intervention of Engineer Ronald Chagoury in safeguarding the Lagos coastline. He credited Chagoury’s efforts with averting what could have been a catastrophic environmental disaster in Lagos.
“I promised that we would act, and we delivered. We prevented a disaster more severe than a tsunami from devastating Victoria Island and Ikoyi,” he stated.
Addressing Nigerians, the President appealed for continued patience and optimism amid ongoing reforms. He highlighted early indicators of economic stabilization, including a more stable exchange rate and a notable decrease in food prices, as promising signs that the country is on a path to recovery.
President Tinubu virtually commissioned several major infrastructure projects, which will play vital roles in enhancing regional connectivity and economic activity. These projects include:
The Lagos–Ibadan Expressway (Shagamu–Ibadan section), extending 166.8 kilometers
The East-West Road from Eleme Junction to Ahoada, covering 94 kilometers
The Alesi–Ugep Road in Cross River State, spanning 67.1 kilometers
The Ikorodu–Shagamu Road, connecting Lagos and Ogun States, measuring 30.4 kilometers
The initial 16 kilometers of the Enugu–Lokpanta Expressway, out of a total 61 kilometers
The New Artisan Market Bridge in Enugu, a 75-meter dual-span structure
A new 75-meter single-span bridge at Akpoha in Ebonyi State
The first 15 kilometers of the Port Harcourt–Onne Junction (East-West Road)
The Lagos–Badagry Expressway (Agbara–Seme Border) stretching 48.6 kilometers
An additional rehabilitated section of the Lagos–Badagry Expressway
A segment of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway
As part of his administration’s continued effort to strengthen Nigeria’s road network, President Tinubu also flagged off the construction of several new highways and road infrastructure, including:
The Ibadan–Ife–Ilesha–Akure–Benin Highway
The Nembe–Brass Road in the Niger Delta region
The reconstruction of critical sections of the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway
The construction of the Abakpa Flyover in Enugu State
At the Lagos ceremony, Senate President Godswill Akpabio delivered a pointed message to state governors, particularly those serving second terms. He advised them to place the long-term vision for their states above personal loyalty when selecting successors.
Akpabio cautioned against handing over power to individuals based on subservience or personal devotion, warning that such choices often result in betrayal.
“We have a president with both foresight and vision. This is why I urge our governors, especially those in their second term, not to give power to anyone who is not genuinely prepared for leadership.
“Do not be swayed by those who merely appear loyal or submissive. Don’t fall into the trap of selecting a successor because he or she kneels before you or behaves subserviently.
“Such choices often lead to disappointment and betrayal. I am simply offering advice to avoid such pitfalls.
“For progressive governors, I am confident that you are on the right path, guided by a leader who has both vision and insight.”
Several prominent figures graced the event, including Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor Dapo Abiodun, Governor Bassey Otu, Governor Uzodimma, Governor Monday Okpebholo, Governor Usman Ododo, and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Among the distinguished attendees were Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, Minister of Works Dave Umahi, Finance Minister Wale Edun, Budget Minister Atiku Bagudu, and Deputy President of the Senate Barau Jibrin.