Federal Government to Commence Tolling on Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway in December

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced that tolling will commence on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway starting December 2025. This initiative marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to modernize its transportation infrastructure and generate revenue for maintenance and further development.

Progress on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway

Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, revealed that Section 1 of the highway, stretching approximately 47.47 kilometers from Ahmadu Bello Way to the Lekki Deep Sea Port and ending at Eleko Junction, is over 80% complete. An additional 10 kilometers in Section 2, extending from Eleko Junction to the Lagos-Ogun border, is nearing completion. These sections feature six-lane, concrete-paved carriageways designed to meet modern standards for safety and durability.

Features and Economic Significance

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is not just a road; it is envisioned as an economic corridor that will catalyze regional growth. The highway is equipped with solar-powered lighting and CCTV infrastructure, enhancing safety and reducing environmental impact. The project also offers carbon credit advantages, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Community Engagement and Expansion

Construction has commenced on Sections 3 and 3B of the highway, covering a total of 65 kilometers,38 kilometers in Cross River State and 27 kilometers in Akwa Ibom. The positive response from local communities underscores the project’s transformative potential in enhancing connectivity and economic opportunities across the region.

Tolling Strategy and Revenue Generation

The introduction of tolls is part of a strategic plan to ensure a 10-year return on investment for the multi-billion-naira infrastructure project. The revenue generated from tolling will be utilized for the maintenance of the highway and to fund further infrastructural developments.

Broader Infrastructure Vision

Minister Umahi also highlighted the administration’s focus on other significant infrastructure projects, including the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway and the Trans-Saharan Trade Route. These initiatives aim to revitalize long-abandoned visions and enhance trade and connectivity across Nigeria and beyond.

Public Response and Considerations

While the tolling initiative is a step towards sustainable infrastructure funding, it raises questions about affordability for everyday Nigerians, especially low-income commuters. The government is expected to address these concerns by ensuring that the tolling system is fair and that the benefits of improved infrastructure are accessible to all.

Looking Ahead

As December approaches, the commencement of tolling on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will be a significant milestone in Nigeria’s infrastructural journey. The government’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and economic growth through such projects reflects a broader vision of national development and prosperity.

Written By Fortune Davidson