The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has thrown more light on the ongoing developments along the Lekki-Victoria Island coastal route, addressing concerns about property management, Federal Government jurisdiction, and the Eko-Atlantic project.
Speaking to newsmen during an inspection of the project, Umahi emphasised the federal government’s efforts to protect critical infrastructure and properties in the Lekki-Victoria Island axis from ocean surges and flooding.
“Over the years, people in this area never have peace of mind due to recurring ocean surges. The Eko-Atlantic project, initiated during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tenure as Lagos State Governor, has successfully turned this potential disaster into an opportunity to safeguard lives and properties,” he said.
Umahi further clarified allegations of tampering with Landmark properties, noting that the area in question falls under federal jurisdiction based on a Supreme Court ruling.
According to him, Landmark is illegally converting federal waterfront property for private use, stating, “The waterfront legally belongs to the federal government, as stipulated by law.”
The Minister explained the design decisions for the coastal highway, which includes separating the two carriageways to preserve high-value properties. “This adjustment was made in the interest of the economy and property owners, demonstrating the federal government’s commitment to equitable solutions,” he added.
Despite legal provisions against compensating for shanties, Umahi disclosed that President Tinubu directed payments to alleviate the suffering of displaced individuals.
“The evaluation was conducted in line with federal government rates, and payments were made directly to the owners,” he noted.
The Minister lauded the Eko-Atlantic project for its dual purpose of protecting properties and creating wealth, highlighting its critical role in safeguarding Lekki and Victoria Island from floods.
Umahi urged the public to focus on the broader benefits of the project, emphasizing its importance in protecting lives and properties while enhancing Lagos’ infrastructure.
The Minister also provided a detailed explanation regarding the ongoing rerouting of the coastal highway in the Okun Ajah area, highlighting the complexities of the project and its broader national benefits.
He explained that the diversion was necessitated by challenges encountered at kilometre 13, where initial rerouting helped save several properties.
However, at kilometre 16, the project encountered significant infrastructure, including undersea cables belonging to two Africa and MTN, which are critical to telecommunications.
“We conducted extensive meetings with MTN and two Africa for over a month, examining the route and their cables. It became clear that the cost of proceeding along the original coastline would be prohibitive and would infringe on these vital installations. Following a directive from the President, Bola Tinubu we had to return to the drawing board and reroute the highway,” he said.
Umahi detailed that the highway was diverted inland from kilometer 16, passing through kilometer 18, where no properties are affected, before merging back with the coastline at kilometer 24. The project he said will ultimately stretch to kilometer 47.7 at Eleko, marking the end of section one.
He also dismissed concerns about litigation from some stakeholders, stating, “The land is being acquired under the Land Use Act for overriding public interest. We have legal support, including five Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN), to address any disputes.”
Umahi further addressed allegations from a local stakeholder, describing them as baseless.
“We prioritise Nigeria’s interests above personal agendas. This project is bringing development and prosperity, not just to the region but to the entire country,” he emphasised.
The minister highlighted significant progress on the project, noting that over 10 kilometers of section two, passing through the Dangote Refinery and Lekki Deep Sea Port, has already been sand-filled.
“By May 29, the ministry aims to complete and commission the first 20 kilometers, with additional phases to follow.
“We are integrating infrastructure like train lines, relief stations, and security points to enhance the project’s utility. This corridor is being prepared for long-term return on investment,” he explained.
Umahi assured that the government remains committed to delivering high-quality infrastructure across the country, with ongoing efforts to commission multiple projects nationwide by April.
He stated that the government will not return the lake, as it poses risks of pollution and is within the 250-meter boundary of federal property. Instead, he revealed plans to utilise part of the land for community benefits, including a service station as part of an ongoing project.
“We are reviewing the contract to include this and other necessary adjustments,” he explained.
To address elevation differences between the road and neighbouring properties, Umahi announced the construction of reinforced concrete retaining walls. “This is essential to protect their properties and ensure the road’s durability,” he added.
Additionally, the project will include tree planting along the highway to absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, contributing to environmental sustainability.
Umahi also highlighted security improvements along the 750-kilometer stretch “Solar-powered CCTV cameras will be installed every five to 15 kilometers, with security posts at intervals for rapid response. The aim is to ensure a response time of 10 minutes. The system will mimic the security framework of the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos,” he said.
The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mrs Olukorede Kesha added that the coastal highway project is advancing ahead of schedule, with 25 per cent completion achieved.
“Sand filling has progressed significantly, covering multiple stretches, and rigid pavement work is underway. By mid-next year, we expect to deliver about 30 kilometers of the project,” Kesha stated, acknowledging challenges such as encountering refuse dumps during excavation.
Managing Director of Hi-Tech Construction Company Limited, Dany Abboud, corroborated the minister’s account, noting that the area was heavily laden with refuse. “Everything was documented with footage, photographs, and ministry checks,” Abboud said.
He detailed ongoing operations, including: Sand filling which is approximately 85 per cent complete across key sections; concrete Works which is alternating operations to ensure proper curing, with three-week intervals to strengthen the pavement and the use of durable concrete poles for streetlight Installation to withstand the corrosive coastal environment.
Abboud affirmed the project’s adherence to durability and safety standards, expressing confidence in its timely delivery.
