Minister of Works, David Umahi, says the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway will be equipped with relief stations, solar-powered lighting and CCTV cameras to enhance travel safety and ensure emergency response times of under ten minutes.
Umahi disclosed this during an inspection of the Calabar–Itu Road and Sections 3A and 3B of the 750-kilometre highway, covering 71.4 kilometres currently under construction in Cross River State.
The project is being executed by HITECH Africa Construction Company Limited using continuously reinforced concrete pavement, a method Umahi said reflects the contractor’s high standards. Speaking in Awi, Akamkpa Local Government Area, he praised HITECH for deploying modern machinery, maintaining construction quality and engaging skilled personnel.
He described the company as a key development partner in Nigeria’s infrastructure drive.
Umahi also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for championing the highway, noting that the project represents a vision the president has nurtured since his days as governor of Lagos State 27 years ago. “The highway will include relief stations, solar lighting and CCTV cameras at strategic points to enhance safety and support security agencies,” Umahi said.
HITECH’s Managing Director, Dany Aboud, assured that more manpower and resources would be deployed to ensure timely completion within the 36-month contract period.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Mpigi Barinada, lauded the quality of work and urged Nigerians to appreciate the scale of earthworks required, especially given the swampy terrain.
Dr. Alex Egbona, representing the Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency, said communities are satisfied with the progress and expressed confidence that the project will spur massive development in Cross River State.
Meanwhile, Federal Controller of Works in Cross River, Yinka Onafuye, revealed that the Federal Government has paid ₦1 billion in compensation so far. Between 700 and 1,000 residents from 12 communities in Akamkpa and Odukpani LGAs have benefited.
“Payment is ongoing. Farmlands and buildings affected by the project have been valued, and beneficiaries are receiving payments through banks,” Onafuye said, adding that those without accounts are being assisted to open new ones.
