Nigeria’s mega-infrastructure project, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, faces intense scrutiny as the House of Representatives launches a probe into alleged irregularities. The N15tn ($34 billion) project, championed by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has drawn both praise and fierce criticism.
Minister Ready to Face Probe, Claims Transparency:
- Umahi expressed his willingness to cooperate with the investigation, even requesting a televised hearing “so that Nigerians will see it.”
- He vehemently denied any personal interest in the project, emphasizing it serves the nation’s development.
- The Ministry of Works maintains it followed due process and obtained necessary approvals.
House of Representatives Demands Answers:
- The House investigation stems from concerns about the project’s opaque nature, particularly regarding:
- Contract award process – allegations suggest Hitech Construction received the contract without competitive bidding.
- Loan approval – questions linger about whether proper procedures were followed to secure funding.
- Beneficiaries – some, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, expressed doubts about who truly benefits from the project’s location.
Project Details and Justifications:
- The 700-kilometer highway, designed with 10 lanes and dedicated train tracks, is expected to connect Lagos to Calabar, traversing eight states.
- Construction is estimated to take eight years at a cost of N4bn ($9.1 million) per kilometre.
- Umahi defends the project’s cost, claiming it’s significantly lower than previous iterations proposed under past administrations. He highlights the project’s potential to:
- Stimulate economic activity and combat inflation through infrastructure investment.
- Facilitate development in coastal regions by integrating them with the mainland.
- Improve transportation efficiency, potentially reducing travel times and costs for both people and goods.
- Create job opportunities during construction and throughout the highway’s operation.
Compensation Concerns:
- While Umahi referred inquiries about compensation to the Lagos office of the Ministry of Works, the Federal Controller of Works, Lagos, stated only 11 property owners would be affected.
- Nine have reportedly received compensation, with two outstanding due to incomplete documentation. The adequacy of the compensation offered and the potential impact on livelihoods and local communities remain a concern.
Minister’s Aide Emphasizes Transparency and Cooperation:
- Umahi’s spokesperson, Uchenna Orji, downplayed concerns about the probe, portraying it as a standard legislative procedure to ensure transparency and inclusivity.
- He assured Nigerians that the administration adheres to proper procedures and welcomes the opportunity to address the House of Representatives’ inquiries.
Unresolved Issues and Lingering Questions:
- Despite the Minister’s assurances, the probe highlights concerns about the project’s potential for corruption and lack of transparency.
- Questions remain regarding the selection process for the contractor, the true cost of the project, and the long-term economic benefits for all Nigerians. The environmental impact of such a large-scale project also warrants careful consideration.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project presents a complex picture. While the potential for economic development is undeniable, concerns about transparency and accountability demand a thorough investigation. The House of Representatives probe offers a crucial opportunity to address these issues and ensure the project truly serves the best interests of the nation. Ultimately, the success of the project will depend on its ability to deliver on its promises while mitigating potential negative consequences.
