By Abasi Ita
The Federal Government has announced additional safety and support features for the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, including relief stations, solar-powered lighting and CCTV surveillance, as part of efforts to enhance security and emergency response on the corridor.
This development comes as compensation to affected communities in Cross River State reaches one billion naira.
Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, disclosed this during an inspection of the Calabar–Itu Road and the 71.4 kilometre Section 3A and 3B of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway currently under construction.
The project, handled by HITECH Construction Company Limited, is being built with continuously reinforced concrete pavement to ensure durability and longevity.
Speaking in Awi, Akamkpa Local Government Area, Umahi commended HITECH for its commitment to quality, noting that the company continues to deploy advanced equipment and skilled personnel to meet the project’s demands. He described the firm as a key development partner in Nigeria’s infrastructural progress.
Umahi also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for driving the coastal highway vision, describing him as a leader committed to fulfilling long-standing national aspirations. He urged Nigerians, especially Cross River residents, to continue supporting the President as the project unfolds.
According to the Minister, the highway will feature essential facilities such as relief stations, solar lighting and CCTV cameras to boost safety and ensure security personnel can respond swiftly to emergencies.
Managing Director of HITECH Africa, Mr. Dany Aboud, expressed gratitude for the Federal Government’s confidence in the company. He assured that construction would be completed within the 36-month timeframe, adding that more personnel and resources are being deployed to accelerate progress.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Mpigi Barinada, who represented the leadership of the National Assembly, commended the quality of work on the project. He urged Nigerians to appreciate the extensive earthworks required, especially in swampy terrain, which account for the project’s substantial capital outlay. He also reaffirmed the National Assembly’s partnership with the Federal Government on infrastructure delivery.
Dr. Alex Egbona, representing Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency, noted that many Cross River residents are impressed by the progress made, particularly given past disappointments from other federal agencies. He added that the highway is expected to stimulate significant development across the state.
Meanwhile, the Federal Controller of Works in Cross River State, Yinka Onafuye, disclosed that the Federal Government has paid one billion naira in compensation to affected persons across twelve communities in Akamkpa and Odukpani Local Government Areas. He said between 700 and 1000 individuals have benefited so far.
Onafuye explained that compensation payment is ongoing and that the ministry is assisting beneficiaries without bank accounts to open new ones in collaboration with banks.