Groups Call for Original Coastal Highway Alignment
A coalition of Niger Delta advocacy groups has formally requested that the Federal Government revert to the original master plan for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. The groups, operating under the Niger Delta Concerned Stakeholders for Accountable Security and Progress (NDCSASP) and the 21st Century Youths of Niger Delta, argue that the current proposed diversion threatens to exclude vital riverine communities in Ondo, Delta, and Bayelsa states.
Concerns Over Community Exclusion
In a statement signed by spokesperson Enisuo Oruomoni, the groups emphasized that bypassing areas such as Ilaje, Itsekiri, and Ijaw communities would undermine the project’s primary objectives. They contend that the highway is intended to foster investment, tourism, and port development, which would be hindered if these coastal regions are sidelined.
The groups specifically highlighted the environmental necessity of the project, noting that the infrastructure is intended to serve as a barrier against coastal erosion and ocean surges. They listed several communities—including Ugborodo, Ogidigben, Ayetoro, Arogbo-Ibe, Gbaramatu, Ekeremor, Ekeni, Ezetu, Koloama, and Brass—as being particularly vulnerable to environmental degradation.
Distinction Between Infrastructure Projects
Addressing the government’s reported consideration of the East-West Road as an alternative, the groups argued that the two projects serve distinct purposes. While the East-West Road provides inland connectivity, they maintained that the coastal highway is essential for opening up underserved coastal areas. They explicitly rejected the notion that the two projects are interchangeable.
The groups also challenged the cost-saving arguments attributed to the Minister of Works, David Umahi. They asserted that Niger Delta communities deserve the same level of engineering investment—such as beachfront roads, bridges, and shore protection—as those provided in the Lagos section of the highway.
Call for Presidential Intervention
Despite their opposition to the route changes, the groups expressed continued support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration, citing other policy successes such as electricity decentralization and support for the Niger Delta Development Commission. They urged the President to intervene to ensure the original alignment is maintained, arguing that oil-producing communities should directly benefit from infrastructure funded by the nation’s oil wealth.