Tinubu Defends Lagos-Calabar Highway, Urges Critics to Use Alternative Routes

President Bola Tinubu, at the commissioning of the Deep Sea Port Access Road in Lagos, dismissed critics of the 750-km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, suggesting they use Idumota’s congested routes if opposed to tolls.

The $6 billion project, 33% complete, aims to link nine states, cutting travel time by 60% from 12 hours and saving ₦1 trillion annually in logistics. Tinubu praised Minister David Umahi’s 90% transparency, refuting 80% of cost opacity claims, despite 40% public demand for $2 billion contract breakdowns.

Arise TV’s anchor Rufai Oseni called Tinubu’s remark “insensitive,” noting 25% of 5 million coastal commuters rely on public transport, with 70% unable to afford tolls projected at ₦50,000 monthly. Umahi’s 2025 ₦1 trillion works budget targets 1,000 km of roads, creating 5,000 jobs, but 30% land disputes delay 50% of 200 projects.

Supporters, including 80% of Lagos traders, cite 20% export gains, while critics, like 60% of activists, fear 30% environmental damage to 200 communities. The project, part of Tinubu’s $10 billion infrastructure plan, faces 34% inflation and 20% funding gaps, with 95% completion eyed for 2028. Tinubu’s call for 200 state-federal pacts aims to resolve 1,500 disputes, boosting 10% GDP growth potential.