The Minister of Works, David Umahi, insists the ₦15.6 trillion Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will drive industrial growth and economic expansion.
During a project inspection in Lagos, he stated that the highway will cut transshipment costs and boost carbon credit earnings.
He dismissed former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s claim that the project is corrupt, calling it transparent and free from financial misconduct.
Umahi described Obasanjo as a father figure but defended his integrity, insisting that corruption accusations lack factual backing.
He challenged critics to assess the project’s economic impact instead of making baseless allegations against President Bola Tinubu.
“I handled every financial aspect transparently, and anyone can verify the process,” Umahi said.
Comparing the project to Nigeria’s power sector privatization, he noted how inefficiencies have forced the government to cover subsidies.
He questioned why critics target this highway while ignoring other major infrastructure projects nationwide.
Umahi outlined the highway’s strategic value, linking deep-sea ports, Lekki Free Zone, and Dangote Refinery to industrial hubs.
“This is not just a road; it is an investment that will fuel industrial expansion and economic transformation,” he said.
The highway also features windmill energy generation and a railway track to enhance trade and industrial connectivity.
Umahi urged leaders to offer constructive advice rather than dismissing game-changing projects with baseless corruption claims.
