Appreciation from Ohanaeze for N15trn Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Project, Advocating National Support

Commending the 700km Lagos-Calabar coastal road project estimated at N15trn, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, expressed its approval.

In a statement released by the Secretary-General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, emphasis was placed on the positive economic impact the project could bring to Nigerians, urging key figures like 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, to focus on this aspect rather than engaging in prolonged debates.

An earlier assertion by Atiku suggesting that the Lagos-Calabar Project lacked adherence to due process standards was acknowledged.

Termed ‘Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road and the Political Calculus,’ the statement by Ohanaeze Ndigbo reflected on the comprehensive analysis conducted on the intricate processes surrounding the inception of the 700km coastal Lagos-Calabar route, expressing confidence in the substantial benefits the project could offer to the populace.

It was stated, “A seismic shift is currently occurring in the realm of Nigerian politics, with reverberations felt in the corridors of power, capturing the attention of keen observers.

“At the crux of this transformation is the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project, a monumental endeavor that stands to potentially reshape the political landscape and redefine the fortunes of prominent individuals.

“As Nigerians, particularly Ndigbo, witness this unfolding narrative, inquiries arise regarding the enigmatic coastal superhighway promising myriad economic advantages for the underprivileged Nigerian populace.

“Ironically, this initiative has turned into a nightmare for opposition politicians, especially overshadowing Atiku Abubakar’s political aspirations.”

Stretching across 700km, the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project aims to establish a vital link between Lagos and Cross River.

The route traverses through the coastal states of Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Edo, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom, before reaching its final destination in Cross River.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural body, has meticulously scrutinized the complex processes that set the foundation for the 700km coastal Lagos-Calabar route.

“The presidential endorsement, marking a significant N15trn investment, along with the contracting of Hi-Tech Company following legal procedures, signify the commencement of a grand venture.

“The deliberate pace of road construction, valued at N4bn per kilometer, has instilled apprehension within opposition circles, envisioning a probable upset to the political balance,” read the statement.

Prior announcements by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, stated that the project is scheduled for completion within eight years.

The Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo stressed the importance of preserving Minister Umahi’s initiatives’ integrity and safeguarding them against unwarranted disruptions from individuals with hidden agendas.

“As events progress, Atiku Abubakar is encouraged to support the success of President Tinubu and Umahi in executing the numerous ongoing road projects inherited from the previous administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

“Umahi’s leadership, underpinned by a presidential mandate for innovative cement technology, heralds an era of infrastructure development promoting economic resilience and enhancing the welfare of all Nigerians,” the statement emphasized.