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The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has addressed public concerns regarding a reported crack on a section of the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, assuring Nigerians that it does not indicate a structural failure.
Speaking during a press briefing in Lagos on Thursday, Umahi clarified that the issue was a minor surface defect, not a compromise of the highway’s structural integrity.
The 700-kilometer coastal highway, a flagship infrastructure project under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, has been touted as a game-changer for Nigeria’s economic and regional connectivity.
However, recent images circulating on social media showing a crack on a newly constructed section sparked widespread debate, with some critics questioning the quality of the work.
Umahi explained that the crack was caused by thermal expansion due to extreme weather conditions and not a result of substandard materials or construction errors.
“What we have is a surface crack, which is common in concrete structures exposed to high temperatures and heavy traffic during early curing stages.
This is not a structural failure, and we have already deployed engineers to address it,” he stated.
The minister emphasized that the contractor, Hitech Construction Company, adhered to international standards, and the highway’s design accounted for Nigeria’s unique environmental challenges, including coastal erosion and flooding.
He added that the affected section would be repaired within 48 hours, with no disruption to the project’s timeline.Umahi also called for calm, urging the public to refrain from spreading misinformation.
“This project is a legacy for generations. We are committed to delivering a world-class highway that will boost trade, tourism, and connectivity across Nigeria’s coastal states,” he said.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, estimated to cost over ₦15 trillion, is designed to link Lagos with Cross River State, passing through Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom.
The project has faced scrutiny over its cost and environmental impact, but the government insists it will drive economic growth and create thousands of jobs.
Local residents and commuters have expressed mixed reactions.
Chinedu Okeke, a truck driver, welcomed the minister’s clarification but urged transparency. “We need to trust that this road will last. They should keep us informed,” he said.
Meanwhile, environmental activist Aisha Bello called for stricter oversight to ensure the project meets durability and sustainability standards.
The Federal Ministry of Works has promised regular updates on the project’s progress and invited independent engineers to inspect the highway to allay public fears.
As construction continues, all eyes remain on the government to deliver on its promise of a resilient and transformative infrastructure.
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Source: NigerianEye | Continue to Full Story…
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