The House of Representatives has initiated an investigation into the procurement process and the award of contracts for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project. This decision was prompted by a motion moved during plenary by Hon. Dr. Austin Achado, which was subsequently adopted.
According to Hon. Achado, the Ministry of Works executed an Engineering Procurement Construction and Finance (EPC+F) contract in favor of Hitech Construction Company Nigeria Limited for the delivery of the 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road and Rail Project. The estimated cost of the project is approximately N4.329 billion per kilometer.
The project is designed to utilize reinforced concrete technology for a carriage width of 59.7 meters, incorporating 10 lanes, shoulders, and rail, along with additional features such as service ducts, streetlights, drainages, and shore protection. Hon. Achado highlighted the potential benefits of the project, including facilitating the movement of goods and services across the nation.
However, concerns have been raised regarding the financing structure of the project. Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, announced a financing structure that requires the federal government to provide 15 to 30 percent co-financing. This has led to calls for a review of the project by various stakeholders, including the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere.
Afenifere has urged the federal government to urgently reconsider its decision to proceed with the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project. The group emphasized the need for a thorough review and retreat to address any potential concerns or irregularities.
