President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has told Gilbert Chagoury not to worry about attacks from critics of the 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
President Tinubu said the road commissioned would be completed and Nigerians would benefit from the success of the trillions of naira road project.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway has been criticized by Nigerians, politicians and environmental activists. Peter Obi, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party and Atiku Abubakar, former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, had on called for suspension of the coastal highway project citing economic hardship, loss of livelihoods and destruction of businesses it would impose on Nigerians.
As said by Obi and Atiku, the Lagos-Calabar highway led to the demolition of many businesses in the road’s right of way, including Landmark Africa beach business. Another criticism of the coastal highway followed the bidding process which was alleged not to have followed the proper business. Seyi Tinubu, the President’s son, was alleged to have played a role in Hightech Construction Company taking the project. A claim already refuted by Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy.
The federal government also said the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of the 700km road would not be made public.
Commissioning the 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway on Sunday, May 26, President Tinubu said Nigerians would reap the benefits of the road project.
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Tinubu, who recounted how Hitech Construction Company partnered with his administration as Lagos State governor to sandfill the Atlantic said the company would also deliver on the coastal highway and other projects of his administration.
Nigeria’s president thanked the Chairman of Hightech Construction Company, Gilbert Chagoury, and Engr. Ronald Chagoury, for being “worthy stakeholders and for believing in the future of Nigeria.”
Tinubu, speaking at the commissioning recounted, “Together, we worked to tame the Atlantic, and we turned a disaster into a great asset of value. We lost weight and took insults, but eventually, we tamed the Atlantic. We achieved our goals.”
He added, “Today is my day to boast. My bragging day. Today, I hold the bragging right,” he said.
“The deal is done. The dream is realizable. The determination to build a nation of prosperity is possible. We said we would build this road, and we are determined to do it.
“Do not be afraid. We will do this road, and it will be a success for Nigeria, and we will do even more of this.
“We have a road that will outlive all of us here. That is how to build the future. This project is more than a mere road. It is a symbol of hope, unity, and prosperity.
Speaking on the economic importance of the project, President Tinubu added, “It will connect communities, bring prosperity to people, and create opportunities for millions of our people. For our nation to excel, we just have to be bold and courageous in our endeavours.
On his part, Lagos State Governor, Sanwo-Olu said the 700km Coastal highway would revolutionize the transport sector and strengthen the country’s economy.
“This monumental highway will connect nine states, linking Lagos to Cross River and enhancing our infrastructure. The project is a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to developing world-class transportation systems.
This initiative has already created thousands of jobs, will boost tourism and enhance economic activities across our coastal states. These are not just roads that are being built; they are a legacy for future generations,” Sanwo-Olu said.
President Tinubu thanked the Minister of Works, David Umahi, whom he credited with dreaming to the realization of the road project. Babajide added that Umahi’s dedication to the project was necessary for the realization of the project.