President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inaugurated the first 30-kilometre stretch of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, marking the official launch of what he described as a bold step toward economic transformation, national unity, and infrastructure legacy. 

Speaking at the inauguration, President Tinubu acknowledged the controversies surrounding the project’s route and the difficult decisions that came with it. 

The President expressed pride in the project and acknowledged the vital role of the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engineer Dr. David Umahi, for his unwavering commitment. He urged continued focus on local content, emphasising the importance of training Nigerian engineers to ensure sustainable skills development within the ministry and beyond.

He commended Hitech Construction Company for their role in executing the project, which uses continuously reinforced concrete pavement to guarantee long-term durability, designed to last beyond a lifetime.

The President Tinubu also praised Engineer Roland Chagoury, whose leadership and vision were instrumental in “taming the Atlantic.”

“My leaders in Lagos thought it was impossible. So many other leaders wanted us to abandon it, and fellow governments rejected the idea that they would take responsibility,” he recalled. “Then, I said, we will do it, and we will succeed with it. Today, a disaster greater than a tsunami that would have consumed Victoria Island is now a statement of fortune. Thank you, Roland.”

Encouraging the nation to remain steadfast, Tinubu said “As we celebrate today, let us reflect on our collective responsibility to preserve infrastructure. The government can build roads, but this is left for us, citizens, to. The motorists and residents alike are hereby encouraged to utilise this opportunity very effectively and well.”

He reassured citizens that the government is determined to complete the entire 700-kilometre project. “Don’t be afraid. We will finish this road. It will be a success for Nigeria and we will do more of this.”

As part of his remarks, the president warned against unlawful development along the highway’s path, affirming that the federal government will strictly enforce the published setback. 

“Development without approval will not be compensated. We are going to enforce it rigidly in every way possible,” he said.

President Tinubu appealed to Nigerians for continued patience amid economic hardship, promising that positive change is underway. “I know expectations are still very high, and our people are going through difficult times, but hope is here and it is realisable.”

He pointed to signs of recovery including falling inflation, stabilised exchange rates, and reduction in corruption and subsidy-related abuses. “This is your opportunity. It is your children that must go through higher education. We are paying for all of that,” Tinubu said.

The president also highlighted efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and reduce drug manufacturing costs. “It is all about the people. We are giving all incentives to everyone to abide by the principles of Nigeria First.”

Erizia Rubyjeana

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