David Umahi Disputes ₦15 Trillion Lagos-Calabar Highway Cost

David Umahi, the Minister of Works, has rejected the ₦15 trillion estimate for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, questioning the methodology behind the figure. He stated that the 750-kilometre project requires different engineering designs, environmental assessments, and soil investigations due to varying terrain and construction challenges.

Umahi emphasized that the Federal Government must complete technical studies for individual sections before determining actual costs. He clarified that the highway's design was conceptualized before the current administration began construction, but a complete engineering design had not been prepared.

The minister explained that the project is being developed in phases, requiring detailed assessments for each section. He argued against using a uniform cost estimate across the entire route, as different sections may necessitate more complex structures and engineering work.

Umahi also defended the government's approach to environmental approvals, stating that a single Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for the entire highway is not required.