The Federal Government has allocated N18 billion to compensate property owners affected by section 1 of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway, as announced by Minister of Works David Umahi on Sunday, November 3.
He emphasised that all individuals on the compensation list for this section would receive payments within the next ten days.
During a stakeholders’ engagement focused on both sections of the coastal road, Umahi expressed his frustration over the compensation process but acknowledged his legal obligations.
“I wouldn’t have been able to respond if you had asked me this question earlier. The law ties my hands,” he stated, noting the challenges of compensating affected individuals.
Initially, the Federal Executive Council approved a budget of N8 billion for compensation based on recommendations from the Bureau of Public Procurement.
However, the total has now reached N18 billion. Umahi promised to publish all details of the compensation process for transparency, including names, pictures, and costs involved.
He also mentioned that there are over ten ongoing court cases related to compensation, which the government will adhere to.
Umahi revealed that 50 percent of the compensation has already been disbursed and directed the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, Olukorede Keisha, to expedite payments without waiting for further approvals.
“Within the next 10 days, we will complete 100 percent of the payments as documented by our enumerators,” he assured.
In addition to compensation updates, Umahi discussed the termination of several projects due to delays, including sections of the Lokoja-Benin corridor and the Lagos-Ibadan highway, which will be reassigned through selective tendering.
He also addressed concerns about the structural integrity of major bridges, particularly the Third Mainland Bridge, citing severe deterioration beneath the surface caused by saltwater exposure.
Umahi highlighted that many of the country’s bridges have suffered from neglect, with some over 50 years old without proper maintenance.
He noted ongoing assessments and consultations with international experts to develop solutions for structural issues.
Furthermore, the minister pointed out the challenges posed by illegal sand mining and underwater currents, which have contributed to the weakening of bridge foundations over time.
Rigorous evaluations of contractor equipment are being implemented to ensure accountability, with potential contract revocations for those failing to meet their obligations.
Umahi concluded by thanking the National Assembly for their interest in prioritising projects for the 2025 budget, expressing confidence in delivering on these commitments with the President’s support.
