The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has fired back at Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over his recent criticism of the cost of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project, describing the governor’s comments as “misinformed and politically motivated.”
Makinde had earlier questioned the transparency and cost efficiency of the multi-trillion-naira coastal highway, suggesting that the Federal Government was not being open about the project’s financial details.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Media, Uchenna Orji, Umahi dismissed the allegations, insisting that the Lagos–Calabar Highway is one of the most transparent and technically sound infrastructure projects in Nigeria’s history.
It is unfortunate that Governor Makinde, who should understand the importance of national infrastructure development, has chosen to politicize a project that will transform the economy of this nation,” the statement read.
Umahi explained that the cost of the 700-kilometre coastal highway was justified by the high engineering standards, modern technology, and the inclusion of major bridges, flyovers, and interchanges along the route.
He added that the project, which is being executed under a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement, had undergone due process and approval from the Federal Executive Council.
Every kilometre of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway is designed to withstand global standards. The project is not inflated, and all figures are in line with current economic realities,” Umahi maintained.
The Minister also urged critics to seek clarification from the Ministry of Works before making “unguarded statements” capable of misleading the public.
We welcome constructive criticism, but we will not tolerate baseless allegations that could derail a project of such national importance,” he said.
Umahi further noted that the coastal highway would boost tourism, trade, and connectivity between the South-West, South-South, and South-East regions, creating thousands of jobs in the process.
The Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, one of President Bola Tinubu’s flagship infrastructure projects, is expected to link nine coastal states upon completion, easing transportation and stimulating economic growth along Nigeria’s southern corridor.
Follow us on all social media platforms @dailyquery for news and analyses around the globe.
