FG Threatens to Terminate Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Project Due to Delays

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The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project, a significant infrastructure initiative in Nigeria, faces potential termination due to delays. The Federal Government, through the Minister of Works, David Umahi, has issued a stern warning to the contractors, demanding immediate action to accelerate the construction process.


Minister Umahi expressed deep disappointment at the slow progress in the Akwa Ibom and Cross River states sections of the project. During a recent meeting in Uyo with representatives from Julius Berger and China Civil Engineering and Construction Company (CCECC), he emphasized the urgency of the situation. The minister highlighted that the contractors had been citing compensation issues as a reason for delays. However, the Akwa Ibom State government had already resolved these compensation matters, leaving no valid excuse for the contractors' inaction.


Umahi issued a clear ultimatum: the contractors have one week to mobilize and resume work on the designated sections or face contract termination. This ultimatum reflects the government's commitment to ensuring timely completion of critical infrastructure projects. The minister also directed specific attention to the Eleme-Onne section in Rivers State, handled by Raynoids Construction Company (RCC), which has also faced significant delays.

Umahi reassured that the Federal Government had released sufficient funds to support these projects. He pointed out that Julius Berger and CCECC must mobilize to the site promptly, or their contracts would be terminated. This decisive action underscores the government's resolve to hold contractors accountable and ensure efficient use of public funds.

The road from Akwa Ibom to Cross River, particularly through Itu and Odukpani, remains one of the worst in the South-South region. RCC, responsible for this section, has received substantial payments but has shown little progress. Umahi revealed that RCC had received over N40 billion for just 15 kilometers of road, a project inherited from the previous administration valued at N156 billion. The minister accused RCC of stalling and threatened to terminate the contract if no significant progress is made within the next week.


Senate President Godswill Akpabio called on the Akwa Ibom State governor, Umo Eno, and all stakeholders to cooperate fully to ensure the project's success. This collaboration is crucial for overcoming the challenges and delivering the much-needed infrastructure improvements to the region.

The Federal Government’s firm stance on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project signals a new era of accountability and efficiency in Nigeria’s infrastructure development. By setting clear deadlines and holding contractors responsible, the government aims to accelerate progress and ensure the timely completion of essential road projects, ultimately improving the lives of Nigerians and boosting economic growth.



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