President Bola Tinubu has disclosed that about 147 structures in Lagos State are expected to be affected by the construction of the service lane for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, with only five earmarked for complete demolition.
Tinubu made the disclosure during a stakeholders’ engagement held alongside the flag-off of rehabilitation works on the Eko and Marine bridges and repairs to a flood-damaged section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
Represented at the event by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the President explained that the remaining 142 structures would only experience minimal impact from the project.
He assured owners of properties affected by the construction that the Federal Government would provide compensation where applicable, urging them to remain patient as the process progresses.
“It will be given to you at the right time,” Tinubu said.
The President said the stakeholder engagement was designed to foster public understanding and cooperation, stressing that community support was essential to the successful execution of the infrastructure projects.
Tinubu described the Eko Bridge as one of the major bridges built in the country in the post-independence era, while highlighting the importance of the Marine Bridge as a key access route to the Lagos seaports.
He commended the Minister of Works, David Umahi, for his efforts towards expanding and rehabilitating Nigeria’s road infrastructure.
The President also appealed to Lagos residents and other stakeholders to cooperate with the government on projects aimed at improving transportation and strengthening infrastructure across the state.
“For all of us to enjoy the full benefit of infrastructure, we have to shift a bit, so that it becomes an asset that will outlive all of us,” he said.
The figure of 147 affected structures was disclosed during the engagement by a representative of the AEC consortium involved in the project.
Tinubu reiterated that the Federal Government welcomed constructive criticism but urged stakeholders to support projects that were properly planned and executed for the benefit of the public.
“It is my honour to flag off all of these projects to the benefit of mankind, to our citizens in Lagos, to the benefit of all our people across the country,” he said.
