Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to Begin Tolling in December – Minister David Umahi Reveals Major Milestone in National Infrastructure Plan
In a significant update on Nigeria's ambitious infrastructure development, Senator David Umahi, the Honourable Minister of Works, has announced that tolling will commence on Section 1 of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway starting December 2025. This revelation marks a pivotal point in the federal government’s infrastructural renaissance under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration.
Speaking during an exclusive interview for a forthcoming State House documentary, which celebrates the second anniversary of President Tinubu’s government, Umahi outlined the government’s progress and future plans for the project, which is expected to transform the nation's economic landscape.
“By December, we will toll Section 1 of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway. We project a 10-year return on investment,” Umahi confirmed.
What is the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway?
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is one of Nigeria’s most ambitious and strategic road infrastructure projects. Designed as a major economic corridor, this multi-lane superhighway will stretch across several key southern states, linking Lagos in the southwest to Calabar in the southeast. With this development, the federal government aims to enhance national integration, stimulate economic activities, and improve mobility along the Atlantic coastline.
The highway is part of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to modernize Nigeria’s critical infrastructure, enhance intra-national trade, and create thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
Features of the Coastal Highway: A New Era in Nigerian Road Construction
According to Minister Umahi, Section 1 of the road project, where tolling will soon begin, comes with advanced infrastructure that reflects global standards in road design and construction. The section features solar-powered street lighting, CCTV surveillance systems, and cutting-edge concrete-paved carriageways.
“The road has solar-powered lighting and CCTV infrastructure, and offers carbon credit advantages. It is more than a road; it is an economic corridor and a catalyst for regional growth,” Umahi emphasized.
This statement underscores the project's dual role—not just in easing transportation but also in promoting sustainable development. The incorporation of solar power aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and encouraging green infrastructure.
Progress Report: What Has Been Completed So Far?
Providing updates on the construction progress, the Minister announced that 30 kilometres of Section 1 have already been completed, while an additional 10 kilometres in Section 2 are nearing final delivery. Both segments feature six-lane concrete roads, built for durability, safety, and long-term resilience against Nigeria’s diverse climatic conditions.
This means motorists traveling along the initial phases of the Lagos-Calabar route can expect a world-class driving experience, reducing travel time and operational costs.
Expansion to Sections 3 and 3B: Community Engagement and Economic Growth
In addition to Sections 1 and 2, the federal government has commenced work on Sections 3 and 3B of the highway, which together span 65 kilometres. This includes 38 kilometres in Cross River State and 27 kilometres in Akwa Ibom State.
Umahi pointed out that the response from host communities has been overwhelmingly positive, describing it as a strong testament to the transformative nature of the project.
“Just days ago, we flagged off Sections 3 and 3B—65 kilometres in total, covering 38 kilometres in Cross River State and 27 kilometres in Akwa Ibom. The host communities’ excitement speaks to these projects’ transformative impact,” he said.
Community support is crucial for large-scale projects like this. The visible excitement from local residents suggests that the highway is already generating hope, economic anticipation, and possibly new investments in these areas.
Socioeconomic Benefits: More Than Just a Road
Beyond transportation, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is positioned as a strategic enabler of economic growth. By connecting ports, industrial hubs, agricultural zones, and tourism destinations, the road will serve as a lifeline for commerce and a stimulus for regional development.
This is particularly important in the South-South and South-East regions, which have long been underserved in terms of federal infrastructure. With the introduction of tolling, revenue generated can be reinvested into road maintenance and further development, ensuring sustainability.
A Historical Perspective: The Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway and Colonial Visions
During the interview, Senator Umahi also touched on another landmark project—the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway. This route, which stretches from the northern city of Sokoto to the coastal town of Badagry in Lagos State, aligns with historical trade routes designed during colonial times.
"The Trans-Saharan trade route dates back to colonial-era planning. President Tinubu is now bringing these long-abandoned visions to life,” the minister explained.
This reflects a renewed national focus on historical trade routes, which once connected Nigeria to regional and continental markets. By reviving such projects, the current administration is bridging the gap between Nigeria’s economic past and its aspirational future.
Road Tolling: What It Means for Nigerian Motorists
The upcoming tolling on Section 1 of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway has raised questions among Nigerians about cost, access, and public-private partnerships. According to Umahi, the tolling system is part of a 10-year return-on-investment plan, designed to ensure that the massive capital injected into the project yields tangible financial returns.
While tolling may initially be met with resistance, it is a globally accepted model for maintaining and upgrading road infrastructure. With efficient toll management, Nigeria could adopt a sustainable road funding mechanism without depending entirely on public funds.
Challenges and Future Outlook
As with any major infrastructure project, there are challenges—from funding issues to environmental concerns and displacement of communities. However, the current administration has committed to transparency, community engagement, and international best practices in execution.
The long-term outlook for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway remains highly optimistic. With improved inter-state connectivity, job creation, and enhanced logistics, the project is poised to become a model for infrastructure development in Africa.
Conclusion: A Symbol of Renewed Hope and National Progress
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is more than just a road—it is a symbol of national renewal under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. With tolling set to begin in December, Nigerians are witnessing the first visible signs of a new infrastructure era.
From advanced road technology to economic empowerment and sustainable development, this highway embodies the kind of progress that Naija truly deserves.
As Senator David Umahi put it:
“It is more than a road; it is an economic corridor and a catalyst for regional growth.”
Stay tuned to NaijaRush.com for continuous updates on Nigeria’s biggest infrastructure projects, national developments, and transformative policies under the Renewed Hope agenda.
