By Abiola Olawale
The Federal Government is set to make a total payment of N2.57 billion as compensation to owners whose properties will be affected by the ongoing construction of the Lagos-Calabar Highway.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, stated on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. He revealed that the Federal Government has approved the payment, adding that the property owners would receive payments from today, May 1.
Umahi, who disclosed this information during a stakeholders meeting held in Lagos, promisef that “more compensation is expected to be paid in the coming days.”
The New Diplomat recalls that the federal government has announced the commencement of construction work on the 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, spanning nine States with two spurs leading to the Northern States.
The government has also begun the demolition of properties affected by the right-of-way on the construction.
The first phase of the project, made up of 47.47 kilometres of dual carriageway, is awarded to Hitech Construction Company Ltd, which is to be constructed in concrete pavement.
The coastal highway has generated heated debate over its cost, the possibility of completion, and the destruction of properties and businesses along its right-of-way.
The highway was further enmeshed in controversy following the demolition of Landmark Beach Resort, which is reportedly valued at $200 million.
After the demolition, the Group CEO of Landmark Beach Resort, Paul Onwuanibe, who spoke with the members of the press, alleged that about 70 percent of the beach was destroyed by the government bulldozers, describing the action as “insensitive.”
