The Nigerian Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced that N18 billion has been allocated to compensate property owners affected by the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project. During a stakeholder engagement on the project, he assured that all individuals listed for compensation on section one of the highway would receive full payment within ten days. Umahi emphasized the need to comply with legal obligations, noting that his role is limited by law in ensuring fair compensation. A breakdown of beneficiaries and costs will be published for transparency, with the government prepared to seek legal resolutions for any disputes over the compensation process.
In addition to compensation efforts, Umahi addressed delays in several national infrastructure projects, including terminating contracts for parts of the Lokoja-Benin and Lagos-Ibadan corridors due to contractor inefficiencies. He defended his stance as strict but necessary to ensure that projects are completed without undue delays. Moreover, Umahi highlighted critical maintenance issues on major bridges like the Third Mainland Bridge, citing structural deterioration from neglect and environmental factors. He underscored the need for substantial funding to prevent potential structural failures.
Umahi further announced plans for detailed assessments of contractor performance and equipment to enforce accountability. He appreciated the National Assembly’s interest in prioritizing infrastructure projects for the 2025 budget, which he believes will help set realistic goals. With President Bola Tinubu’s support, Umahi expressed confidence in delivering on these infrastructure commitments to enhance national development and safety.
