Share
Abdulazeez Abubakar
2 weeks ago
Overview
Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway: Fed Govt kicks off dredging of Section 2
Minister of Works, David Umahi, has announced the commencement of clearing and dredging for Section Two of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. He said the process follows existing laws and global best practices, focusing on maintaining pavement levels, protecting shorelines, and incorporating climate-resilient measures.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos, Umahi stated that the project aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He explained that the highway aimed not only to ease traffic congestion but also to foster long-term development and attract investments.
The minister said the highway would include multiple amenities such as a centrally located rail line. He added that the infrastructure is being designed with consideration for economic growth and the welfare of local communities, which is why stakeholder engagement remains a priority.
Umahi addressed concerns regarding property demolitions, particularly the claims of a foreign investor whose $250 million business was allegedly impacted. He clarified that compensation had been paid to over 700 property owners affected by Section One’s right-of-way.
In another development, Umahi revealed the federal government’s plan to deploy robotic technology for underwater bridge inspections nationwide. These robotic systems, he said, will reduce reliance on divers and minimize inspection costs.
The minister also announced that several bridges would be ready for commissioning by President Tinubu starting May 1, with more to follow in December.
During the meeting, stakeholders praised the federal government’s efforts but urged attention to sustainability, especially regarding dredging and structural durability.
On the issue of waterway closures between Eko and Carter Bridges, Umahi warned against misuse of bridges, stressing that they were designed for dynamic—not static—loads. He criticized activities such as parking and trading on the bridges, warning that continued abuse could force closures.
He reiterated the Federal Executive Council’s directive prohibiting trenching within a 10-kilometer radius of any bridge nationwide. The Minister disclosed that the European Union had raised concerns that continued dredging could compromise the structural integrity of bridges.
Umahi stressed the importance of halting illegal sand mining and dredging around bridge piles, noting that such activities threaten the very foundations of these aging structures.
https://thenationonlineng.net/lagos-calabar-coastal-highway-fed-govt-kicks-off-dredging-of-section-2/
