The Nation Newspaper

Tag: coastal highway

  • Coastal highway: Winhomes urges subscribers to avoid parallel legal actions

    Coastal highway: Winhomes urges subscribers to avoid parallel legal actions

    Winhomes Estate Global Services Ltd has advised its subscribers and members of the public to refrain from instituting independent or parallel legal actions concerning the Winhomes Estate land at Okun-Ajah, Lagos, noting that the matter is already before the courts.

    In a public notice, the company stated that it has instituted a suit, which is currently on appeal, in its name and on behalf of all purchasers of land within the estate.

    It said the legal action relates to issues arising from developments connected with the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road project and engagements with the Federal Ministry of Works.

    The company explained that the suit covers both affected and unaffected subscribers of Winhomes Estate.

    It reiterated that it remains the duly constituted developer and representative body handling the matter collectively in court and in discussions with the federal government and the Ministry of Works on settlement, compensation, and restitution.

    The company clarified that it has not authorised any subscriber, group, or individual to file separate lawsuits or commence independent legal proceedings on the same subject.

    According to Winhomes, subscribers who choose to pursue independent actions while the appeal is pending do so at their own discretion.

    The company also recalled its previous involvement in addressing earlier disputes affecting the estate, stating that it had acted in the collective interest of subscribers in those instances.

    On the future of the estate, Winhomes assured subscribers that their investments would be preserved once the legal process and engagements with the federal government are concluded.

    The company further advised unauthorised persons to refrain from actions that could interfere with the ongoing appeal or ongoing discussions with the government.

    It maintained that, pending the final determination of the appeal and resolution with the Federal Government, it remains the only recognised entity prosecuting the matter on behalf of subscribers.

    The notice added that upon settlement and compensation by the Federal Government, the estate would be redesigned, restructured, and reallocated in a way that preserves subscriber equity and value.

  • Coastal Highway: Fed Govt begins payment of compensation in Akwa Ibom

    Coastal Highway: Fed Govt begins payment of compensation in Akwa Ibom

    The Federal Government has begun the payment of compensation to persons whose farmlands were affected by the construction of Section 3A of the Coastal Highway in Akwa Ibom State.

    The compensation payment is routed through the Federal Ministry of Works for affected persons in Okobo, Nsit Atai, and Uruan local government areas of the state, where the road crisscrosses.

    A statement yesterday in Uyo, the state capital, by the State Works Controller of the Federal Ministry of Works, Vincent Okoduwa, advised all individuals whose farmlands have been valued for compensation to visit the First Floor of the Conference Room at the Federal Secretariat Complex in Uyo for verification and capturing.

    He advised owners of farmlands that have not been valued to present themselves for verification.

    Okoduwa also announced that all affected persons are required to present relevant documents, including valid means of identification, proof of property or farmland ownership, BVN, NIN, and bank account details for verification and capturing.

    He stressed that the ministry would only attend to persons from the following communities in the captured local government areas of Okobo, Nsit Atai, and Uruan.

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    The communities are: Adadia, Akpa Meri Ukim, Anakpa, Atai Odobo, Edik-Ikpa, Ekim Enen, Eweme, Ibete Ndon-Ebom, Ikot Asua, Ifiayong Usuk, and Ikot Itie Udung.

    Others are: Ikot Obong, Ikot Abasi, Ikot Akan, Ikot Akpabio, Ikot Antia, Ikot Inyang, Ikot Inyang Esuk, Iwok Nsit, Ikot Obong, Ikot Otoinyie, Isa Okiuso, Issiet Ekim, Iwok Obio, Mbiakong, and Nda Ikot Apanuma.

    The rest are: Ndon Ebom, Nkimenta, Nsie, Nsit Itie, Nung Atai, Nung Udom Odobo, Okorobo, Ufak Effiong, Usie Uran, Uta Ukpong, and Ikot Ebok.

    The controller said the exercise, which began on December 1, will continue throughout the early part of the year 2026.

    Okoduwa urged the affected landowners to ensure that they do the needful to receive the compensation for their lands.

  • Work begins on Calabar axis of coastal highway

    Work begins on Calabar axis of coastal highway

    Work has commenced on the Calabar axis of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project.

    There is ongoing construction activity stretching through the Awi forest in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    The site, located off the Calabar-Ikom expressway near Odukpani junction, bears twin signposts announcing the project under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Works and executed by HITECH Construction Company Limited.

    The project area presents a challenging mix of topography—dense forests, hilly terrains, rocky formations, and swampy stretches.

    Large trees have been felled and mangrove vegetation cleared to make way for the new road corridor linking Cross River and Akwa Ibom States.

    Read Also: Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway: Tinubu approves 100 km extension through Edo

    Many heavy-duty machines, including excavators, bulldozers, and swamp buggies, are at work across the site, filling the air with the constant hum of engines and the rhythmic clatter of construction.

    Despite the difficult landscape, engineers and workers have pressed on, carving through rock and levelling hills to prepare the ground for the concrete pavement.

    When our reporter visited the site, about five kilometres of the roadbed had been graded and readied for base installation.

    It was also observed that earthworks extend deep into the forest, where teams are clearing wider stretches to shape the highway alignment.

    Workers at the site say operations continue daily despite the rainy season posing a major challenge.

    One worker explained: “The terrain is difficult, but progress is steady.

    ”The teams, including expatriate engineers, resume each morning accompanied by security personnel and work until evening.”

    The contrast between this section and the Lagos axis of the highway is evident in the pace of progress.

    While the Lagos side advances faster on flat terrain, the Calabar end moves more slowly due to its rugged landscape.

    Commissioner for Works in Cross River State, Ankpo Pius Edet, told doubters that the project is ongoing at point 001 in Cross River.

    He described it as evidence of the Renewed Hope Agenda in Cross River.

    Edet said President Tinubu had demonstrated his creative mind by opening up an area that had no road before.

    On construction difficulties, he said: “These challenges will affect the timeframe of the project.

    “These challenges are natural and inevitable. But they are pushing.

    ”People should understand the differences in terrain.

    “The contractor is also complying with the local content aspect of the project because our people are participating in the project.

    ”The people of Cross River are also participating in the project.”

    “Some are supplying sand, and others are artisans.

    “HITECH has been here for over 20 years, so they understand the terrain.”

    A HITECH official, who identified himself simply as Engr. Elias told our reporter: “We have gone far on the project.

    “If you come in a few weeks, you will see more.”

  • Coastal highway: Calabar, Akwa-Ibom, Ebonyi segments kicks-off next week

    Coastal highway: Calabar, Akwa-Ibom, Ebonyi segments kicks-off next week

    The Federal Government will kick-off the construction of the Southeast and Southsouth segments of the Lagos Calabar Coastal Highway next week.

    Works Minister David Umahi, who dropped the hint yesterday on his social media handle, stressed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s determination to complete the projects within the stipulated time.

    According to him, the Coastal highway project will have a powerful, positive impact on both the economy and the overall development of the country.

    He said the Akwa Ibom Section will be flagged-off on April 14, with the Akwa Ibom State spur taking place on April 15, while the Trans-Sahara Road spur in Ebonyi State will follow on April 16.

    The statement reads: “Yesterday (Sunday), the Federal Ministry of Works, under my watch, met in Lagos, over the progress of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project; a game-changer for inclusive economic growth and progressive national prosperity.

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    “This project will serve as a formidable evacuation corridor, boosting tourism, trade, agriculture, aquaculture, and maritime services.

    “The highway will feature Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) surveillance for enhanced safety and rapid response, sustainable infrastructure with minimal emissions, and environmental conservation through tree planting.

    “I want to assure Nigerians that we are committed to delivering quality infrastructure that will improve their standard of living.

    “I appreciate the cooperation and support of Nigerians for the Renewed Hope road infrastructure initiatives. However, I must address the recent claims made by some individuals regarding the project’s impact on their properties. I want to assure the public that these claims are irresponsible and delusive.

    “Under the leadership of Mr. President, we are determined to deliver awarded projects within record time. Let’s work together toward a brighter future for Nigerians.”

  • Coastal Highway: FG commences Calabar, Akwa-Ibom, Ebonyi segments next week

    Coastal Highway: FG commences Calabar, Akwa-Ibom, Ebonyi segments next week

    The federal government is set to flag-off construction of the Southeast and South south segments of the coastal highway next week.

    Minister of Works Dave Umahi stated this in a statement on his social media handles on Monday.

    The minister noted that the President Bola Tinubu administration is determined to complete the projects within the stipulated time.

    According to him, the coastal Highway project will have a powerful, positive impact on the economy and the overall development of the country.

    The Minister said the Akwa Ibom section will be flagged-off on Monday, April 14 with the Akwa Ibom spur flag-off taking place a day later on Tuesday, April 15, while the Trans-Sahara Road spur in Ebonyi State will be flagged-off on Wednesday, April 16, 2025.

    He said:” Yesterday, the Federal Ministry of Works under my watch met in Lagos, over the progress of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project; a game-changer for inclusive economic growth and progressive national prosperity.

    “This project will serve as a formidable evacuation corridor, boosting tourism, trade, agriculture, aquaculture, and maritime services.

    Read Also: Umahi: Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will withstand flood for 50 years

    “The highway will feature CCTV surveillance for enhanced safety and rapid response, sustainable infrastructure with minimal emissions, and environmental conservation through tree planting.

     “I want to assure Nigerians that we are committed to delivering quality infrastructure that will improve their standard of living.

    “I appreciate the cooperations and supports of Nigerians for the Renewed Hope road infrastructure initiatives. However, I must address the recent claims made by some individuals regarding the project’s impact on their properties. I want to assure the public that these claims are irresponsible and delusive.

    “I am pleased to announce the upcoming flag-off events for the Calabar end of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway on Monday, April 14, 2025, the Akwa Ibom State spur on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, and the Trans-Sahara Road spur in Ebonyi State on Wednesday, April 16, 2025.

    “Under the leadership of Mr. President, we are determined to deliver awarded projects within record time. Let’s work together towards a brighter future for Nigerians.”

  • Coastal Highway: Nigerians in Diaspora call for review of coastal road realignment

    Coastal Highway: Nigerians in Diaspora call for review of coastal road realignment

    Nigerians living abroad who invested in WinHome Global Estate, located along the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway diversion between Chainage 17-18, have urged the federal government to reconsider the controversial road alignment.

    They advocated for adherence to the original route gazetted in 2006, which they believe better protects their investments and property rights instead of relying on compensation.

    The investors are also calling for the enforcement of the Lagos State Properties Protection Law of 2016, designed to safeguard legitimate property owners against illegal occupation, harassment, and exploitation.

    During a recent visit to the estate, the investors appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister of Works David Umahi to reverse the recent alignment, stating that it poses a threat to Nigeria’s investment climate and the welfare of its citizens.

    Stella Okengwu, Managing Director of WinHomes Global Services, said: “Despite having the governor’s consent, Certificate of Occupancy, and coastal road clearance, the federal ministry is compensating for a new alignment that violates the 2006 gazette.

    “This undermines the Lagos State Properties Protection Law, 2016, which was enacted to protect investors and property owners,” she said.

    Okengwu emphasized that the WinHome Estate project was launched to attract diaspora investments, to repatriate $250 million and to create 5,000 jobs for Nigerians.

    A medical doctor, Charles Mba, a Canada-based investor, expressed disappointment over the encroachment on the estate, stating that the realignment jeopardizes years of sacrifice by Nigerians in the diaspora.

    “When we invested, there was no coastal road in this area. This sudden change undermines the trust we placed in the government’s commitment to support diaspora investors,” he lamented.

    Mba highlighted that many diaspora investors have worked for decades abroad, saving every penny to invest in Nigeria.

    “This decision is not only unfair but also a betrayal of our trust in the government. Roads are for people, not animals,” one investor remarked.

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    “This move could displace families and destroy lives. The government must act to protect legitimate investors.”

    The investors urged President Tinubu and Minister Umahi to visit the estate and assess the situation firsthand.

    They believe reversing the decision will restore confidence in Nigeria’s investment potential.

    Another investor, Dr Kimberly Stark from Chicago Illinois in the United States of America appealed directly to Tinubu: “Mr. President, you have travelled globally, promoting foreign investment. Reversing this decision will reaffirm your commitment to protecting diaspora investments and inspire others to invest in Nigeria.”

    They warned that such controversies send a negative message to potential investors and undermine federal efforts to attract foreign direct investment.

    “We believed in the government’s vision for diaspora investment,” Stark stated. “Allowing this decision to stand will tarnish Nigeria’s reputation as a viable investment destination.”

    Another investor residing in South Africa, Mr Shadrack Oyibo questioned the rationale behind situating a coastal road 750 meters away from the beach, contrary to the gazetted alignment.

    “A coastal road should be close to the beach, not cutting through residential areas filled with homes,” he argued, pointing to visible structures in the area.

  • Lagos-Calabar coastal highway: FG woos governors for economic towns 

    Lagos-Calabar coastal highway: FG woos governors for economic towns 

    The Federal Government has initiated discussions with all the host states along the 700km Lagos-Calabar coastal highway regarding the allocation of land for the establishment of economically sustainable towns along the route, the Minister of Works, David Umahi has revealed.

    According to Umahi, the discussions are crucial as establishing economically sustainable towns along the road will allow nearby communities to fully harness the economic advantages of the coastal highway, considered one of the most pivotal projects in the works sector and a significant driver of the national economy.

    The first phase of the highway is to be completed within 36 months.

    Read Also: Umahi’s ministration to Nigerian roads

    The Minister disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday by the Ministry’s Director of Information, Ben Goong during an inspection tour of the project alongside the National Assembly joint Committee on works, where he implored Nigerians to sustain the hope in President Bola Tinubu as the government remains committed to fulfilling its Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Umahi, who expressed satisfaction over the quality and pace of work being carried out on the project noted that the dredging processes, excavation works, dewatering and sand filling as well as placement of crushed stone base, cement stabilisation of the base course, drainage works and culverts among other processes were progressing satisfactorily. 

    The Minister also revealed that provision has been made for a train station at the Ikorodu junction of the road, which will also provide a link to the Ikorodu-Sokoto highway. 

    Also speaking during the inspection tour, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Sen. Barinada Mpigi and the Chairman House Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi on behalf of their colleagues promised the unflinching support of the National Assembly in the area of funding through appropriation to ensure that the project is completed in record time.