Umahi dismisses Lagos-Calabar Highway flood worries, vows 2031 finish

Minister of Works Dave Umahi dismissed flooding concerns on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, explaining that water seen in the median is due to the design provision for a future railway line, not poor drainage. He said the median, about 25 metres wide, was excavated and sand‑filled for rail, and drainage channels will now be built to prevent water accumulation. Umahi admitted slight depressions may temporarily hold water but said corrective measures are already in place and there is no cause for alarm.

He highlighted progress: Section One, a 47‑kilometre six‑lane stretch, is already completed despite a three‑year contract, having started in 2024. Section Two, covering 55 kilometres with six lanes, will be substantially completed by November 2026. Work continues on Sections Three and Four through Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Ogun and Ondo states, with redesigns needed for swampy terrain and environmental rules. Umahi also noted ongoing work on other legacy projects such as the Sokoto‑Badagry Super Highway and federal roads in Kebbi, Oyo, Gombe and Akwa Ibom, all slated for completion on or before 2031. He praised contractor Hitech Construction for continuing work despite delayed government payments.

With the highway expected to ease travel between Lagos and Calabar once finished, will you factor the November 2026 completion of Section Two into your travel plans, or consider alternative routes for now?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/06/20/umahi-dismisses-flooding-concerns-on-lagos-calabar-coastal-highway/