By Frank Ulom
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – The Federal Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi has disclosed that the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway will feature CCTV cameras, relief stations, and solar-powered lighting to enhance safety and ensure rapid emergency response times of under ten minutes.
Umahi made the disclosure at the weekend during an inspection of the Calabar–Itu Road and the 71.4-kilometre Section 3A and 3B of the 750-kilometre Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway currently under construction in Cross River State.
The project, which incorporates continuously reinforced concrete pavement, is being executed by HITECH Africa Construction Company Limited.
Speaking in Awi, Akamkpa Local Government Area, Engr. Umahi praised HITECH for maintaining high construction standards, deploying modern equipment and engaging skilled personnel. He described the company as a key development partner in Nigeria’s progress.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for championing the project, saying the President remains committed to completing the highway, a vision he began nurturing over 27 years ago as Governor of Lagos State.
According to Umahi, the highway will include essential facilities such as CCTV cameras, relief stations, and solar lighting at strategic points to improve travel safety and support security agencies.
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The Managing Director of HITECH Africa Construction Company, Dany Aboud, on his part, expressed appreciation to the President and assured that the company would work around the clock by deploying additional manpower and resources.
He pledged the timely delivery of both segments within the 36-month contract period.
Representing the leadership of the National Assembly, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Mpigi Barinada, lauded the quality of construction and urged Nigerians to appreciate the extensive earthworks required due to the swampy terrain, which justifies the project’s scale and cost.
In the same vein, Dr Alex Egbona, member representing Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, said many residents of Cross River State are impressed by the progress of the project, given past disappointments from other federal agencies.
He assured President Tinubu of maximum support in 2027, emphasising that the road would stimulate massive development across the state.
Meanwhile, the Federal Controller of Works in Cross River State, Yinka Onafuye, disclosed that the Federal Government has paid compensation amounting to N1 billion to affected persons.
He said between 700 and 1000 people from 12 communities in Akamkpa and Odukpani Local Government Areas have benefited so far.
“Payment of compensation is ongoing. Farmlands and buildings affected by the project have been valued, and beneficiaries have started receiving payments through the banks,” Onafuye said.
He added that the ministry, in partnership with banks, is assisting individuals without existing accounts to open new ones to facilitate payment.
