Government Pays N2.75 Billion Compensation For Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project

The Nigerian government disbursed N2.75 billion in compensation for properties affected by the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, according to Minister of Works David Umahi.

The initiative aims to facilitate economic development and connectivity along the southern coast, despite controversy over the demolition of landmarks like Landmark Beach Resort.

The government has disbursed a sum of N2.75 billion as compensation to property owners affected by the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.

VerseNews reports that the announcement was made by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, during a stakeholders meeting held at Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos.

According to Umahi, this compensation package specifically targets properties situated within a range of 0 to 3 kilometers along the proposed route of the 700-kilometer coastal highway. These properties were demolished to facilitate the ambitious infrastructure project, which is poised to become the country’s single largest development undertaking upon completion.

Umahi emphasized that while such decisions may be tough, they are crucial for realizing the economic potential of the region. He underscored the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability, assuring stakeholders that compensation processes would adhere to established guidelines.

The compensation recipients include prominent establishments such as the Landmark Group, Kids Club, Maxtivity, and Bolaji Areyoh, whose Mami Chula Beach Lifestyle is one of the most significant infrastructural casualties.

Despite the inherent sacrifices associated with the project, Areyoh expressed optimism about its long-term benefits and urged affected individuals and businesses to cooperate with the government’s compensation efforts.

Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, reiterated the government’s commitment to fulfilling its promises. She affirmed that the compensation disbursements mark a critical milestone in the project’s timeline, signaling the government’s resolve to address the concerns of affected parties promptly.

However, the demolition of Landmark Beach Resort has sparked considerable controversy, with critics condemning the perceived insensitivity of the action. The resort, valued at $200 million, employed over 4000 Nigerians and served as a vital economic hub in the region. Some stakeholders argue that the government should have explored alternative routes to preserve such valuable assets.

Nevertheless, proponents of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project highlight its transformative potential for the region. By linking two major cities along Nigeria’s southern coast – Lagos and Calabar – the highway is poised to enhance regional connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and facilitate smoother transportation networks.

Advocates believe that the project will unlock new opportunities for communities and businesses, ultimately driving Nigeria’s socio-economic development agenda forward.