Sokoto-Badagry, Lagos-Calabar: 'No Turning Back on Infrastructure Revolution

By: Manoah Kikekon 

President Bola Tinubu at the commissioning of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway 

President Bola Tinubu has vowed to ramp up spending on critical infrastructure, defending his administration’s ambitious highway projects and dismissing critics who question the scale and cost of the developments.  

Speaking at the inauguration of the Lekki Deep Sea Port Access Road in Lagos, Tinubu hailed the progress on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and other legacy projects, insisting they will transform Nigeria’s economy.  

The president, visibly pleased with the newly completed access road built by Dangote Industries under the Tax Credit Scheme, praised private sector partners for their role in national development.  

“This is not just about roads; it’s about unlocking Nigeria’s potential,” Tinubu declared. “The Lekki Deep Sea Port, which I initiated as governor, is now a reality, saving businesses millions by eliminating trans-shipment costs. We will replicate this success across the country.”  

Addressing critics who claim the 750km coastal highway is too costly and poorly planned, Tinubu clarified that the project is being executed in phases, not as a single contract.  

“Some people speak from ignorance,” he said. “The 30km section already completed is part of a 47.7km segment not the entire corridor. We are systematic, transparent, and committed to delivering world-class infrastructure.”  

Tinubu also highlighted the revival of the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, a project first conceived 47 years ago under President Shehu Shagari.  

“This corridor will connect seven states, over 58 dams, and vast farmlands, boosting agriculture, trade, and even wind energy,” he said. “Construction is already underway, with 10km completed in Kebbi and work progressing in Sokoto.”  

The president revealed that two additional legacy projects the Trans-Sahara Trade Route (linking Calabar to Abuja) and the Akwanga-Jos-Bauchi-Gombe corridor are advancing, with accelerated designs underway.  

“We will not stop,” Tinubu declared. “With God’s help, these projects will be completed, and Nigeria will reap the benefits for generations to come.”  

NAN