The Federal Government has disbursed N1 billion in compensation to residents of Cross River State whose properties were affected by the ongoing construction of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway.
The announcement was made by Yinka Onafuye, Federal Controller of Works in Cross River, during an inspection of the Calabar–Itu Road and Sections 3A and 3B of the 750-kilometre highway, accompanied by the Minister of Works, David Umahi.
“Payment of compensation is ongoing. Farmlands and buildings impacted by the project have been assessed, and beneficiaries are now receiving payments through the banks,” Onafuye said.
So far, between 700 and 1,000 residents from 12 communities in Akamkpa and Odukpani Local Government Areas have benefited from the N1 billion payout, he added.
Minister Umahi highlighted key features of the highway, including relief stations, solar-powered lighting, and CCTV cameras, aimed at improving road safety and ensuring swift emergency response.
“The highway will incorporate essential facilities at strategic points to enhance travel safety and support security agencies,” he said, noting President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to completing the project—a vision he initiated over 27 years ago.
The Managing Director of HITECH Africa Construction Company, Dany Aboud, assured that additional manpower and resources would be deployed to complete both sections within the 36-month contract period.
Senator Mpigi Barinada, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, defended the project’s scale and cost, citing the quality of construction and extensive earthworks required due to swampy terrain.
Dr Alex Egbona, representing the Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency, said residents are impressed with the project’s progress and pledged maximum support to the government, adding that the highway is expected to stimulate significant development across the state.
