Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, has ordered a 24-hour construction regime on the Akwa Ibom section of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, describing the project as “a non-negotiable catalyst for Nigeria’s industrial revolution.”
Umahi, who inspected the corridor at the weekend alongside members of the Senate Committee on Works, senior engineers, and political stakeholders, directed Hitech Construction to immediately commence round-the-clock operations, begin landscaping with trees, and install solar-powered lights for security.
He disclosed that Section 3 of the project, covering parts of Akwa Ibom and Cross River States, has been realigned from 65km to 72km to bypass a “terrible” 19km swamp—an adjustment he said would enhance durability and cut long-term costs.
“This highway will be an economic catalyst. Hitech is working day and night, even without immediate payment. They are committed to delivering in 24 months, not 36,” Umahi said.
“We are taking courageous decisions to build a legacy for the next generation. Critics are welcome to visit and see the facts.”
The minister also revealed that President Bola Tinubu has approved the payment of outstanding certificates for the coastal highway and other federal projects following the transfer of funding responsibility from the NNPC to the Ministry of Finance.
Payments, he noted, would commence after verification.
Providing an update, the Federal Controller of Works in Akwa Ibom, Engr. Okoduwa Vincent, said construction activities had intensified across the 41-kilometre stretch within the state.
He reported that over 30km had already been cleared, with three major culverts—including a twin and a triple—completed.
“We are fully committed to delivering within the 36-month schedule,” he said.
Hitech Managing Director, Dany Abboud, explained that the realignment allowed the firm to avoid the swampy 19km stretch that would have required extensive bridging and heavy engineering.
“This brings the new length to 71.4 kilometres—41 in Akwa Ibom and the rest in Cross River. Only seven to eight kilometres of swampy terrain remain,” he said.
He added that the company remains determined to beat the 36-month deadline despite weather challenges.
Chairman of the National Assembly Joint Committee on Works, Senator Barinada Mpigi, assured that the legislature would continue to support the project financially, noting that the progress on the ground justifies previous approvals.
“People kept asking if the project was real. Today, we see it is alive,” he said. “We will sustain our oversight to ensure its success.”
Also on the delegation was PDP chieftain and leader of the Alternative Movement, Otumba Segun Showunmi, who hailed the project’s transformative potential.
“Seeing the Lagos end was impressive, but the Akwa Ibom axis dispels political narratives. The tourism and economic potential here is enormous—similar to what built modern Dubai.
“We must build consensus around development. The vision and execution matter more than politics,” he said.
With the minister’s 24-hour directive now in force, the Akwa Ibom axis is expected to accelerate significantly, reinforcing what officials describe as one of Africa’s most ambitious coastal infrastructure projects.
