President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday flagged off the construction of the iconic Lagos-Calabar coastal road project from the zero point at Victoria Island in Lagos.
The President had earlier on commissioned the completed Apapa-Oworosonki express in Lagos, which was started under President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. The road was financed by the Dangote Group under the infrastructure tax credit scheme and constructed using concrete pavement technology by Hitech.
The President also commissioned virtually, the completed rehabilitation of the 3rd mainland Bridge in Lagos with Minister of Works revealing that work is ongoing at the bridge and three other bridges in Lagos to repair the eroded piers.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu while flagging off the construction of the Lagos-Calabar coastal road said that the project is more than just a road, describing it as a symbol of hope, unity, and prosperity for Nigeria.
The President equally noted that potential of the Lagos-Calabar coastal road is enormous because it will have two spurs which will link up with Sokoto – Badagry Expressway which he said is under procurement and the African Trade Route which connects South East to Cameroon thereby connecting every region of the country.
The President also virtually flagged off construction of around 330 road projects across the country with the words, “Let the construction begin!”
Below is the full address by President Bola Tinubu at the flag off ceremony:
ADDRESS BY PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU GCFR AT THE OFFICIAL FLAG OFF OF THE CONSTRUCTION OF LAGOS – CALABAR COASTAL HIGHWAY FLAGSHIP PROJECT AND OTHER TWO LEGACY PROJECTS, AS WELL AS REHABILITATION OF ROADS AND BRIDGES NATIONWIDE
Protocol.
Today, we gather to mark a significant milestone in our journey towards progress and development. The flag off of this 700 Km superhighway, a 10-lane road project represents a crucial step in our efforts to enhance connectivity, facilitate economic growth and improve the quality of life for our people.
This project is more than just a road – it is a symbol of hope, unity, and prosperity. It will connect our communities in nine states, foster trade and commerce, boost tourism and create new opportunities for generations to come.
A similar road in Ireland, called the Wild Atlantic Way, 2,600km long is expected to fetch 3 billion euro a year in tourism revenues.
I want to express my gratitude to the team of engineers, workers, and stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to bring us to this point. Your dedication and expertise are the driving force behind the take-off of this project.
As we embark on this journey, let us remember the importance of safety, sustainability, and social responsibility. Let us work together to ensure that this project benefits everyone, and that we leave a lasting legacy for our children and grandchildren.
This is not only a legacy project of this administration but a dream come true that will connect some neglected towns and cities along the coastal route. Overtime it has been noticed that both Tin Can Island and Apapa ports are becoming shallower thereby limiting the size of ships that can berth at those strategic ports. It is pertinent to note that Lagos state Government in partnership with private investors developed Lekki Deep Sea Port which does not have a link road. It is however obvious that this development will open up businesses and investment along the project corridor.
The potential of this road is enormous because it will have two spurs which will link up with Sokoto – Badagry Expressway which is under procurement and African Trade Route which connects South East to Cameroon thereby connecting every region of the country.
It is worthy to state that the model of EPC+F (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Plus Finance) which the ministry is adopting is commendable. This sees the Federal Government investing while waiting for private investors to bring on board their counterpart funds.
I commend the Honourable Minister of Works and the staff of the Ministry who are ensuring that the contractor delivers good quality work.
I further crave the understanding of the general public especially those whose properties and sources of livelihood will be impacted by this iconic project. We all make some sacrifice to enable our country grow. But be rest assured: this government is a compassionate government that cares for you and will do the utmost to offer succor, by way of compensation.
To the glory of God and benefit of our people, it is my greatest pleasure to flag off this project and also virtually flag off the spurs about to be procured.
I also flag off the massive rehabilitation of 330 roads and bridges across the nation.
Let the construction begin. Thank you.
May God continue to bless our dear Nation Nigeria.
