Ogun State Governor Highlights Completion Timeline for Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has announced that the Federal Government is set to complete a crucial 28 kilometers of the 700-kilometer Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road by the end of 2026. This significant project is anticipated to provide a substantial boost to the proposed Ogun Deep Sea Port and various strategic investments along the state’s coastline.
Coastal Road Set to Unlock Economic Potential
During the commissioning of the reconstructed Gao-Ibiade road in the Ogun Waterside local government area, Governor Abiodun emphasized that the coastal road will unlock the economic potential of Ogun Waterside, offering essential infrastructure that is vital for industrialization, marine development, and large-scale investment activities.
Governor’s Praise for National Infrastructure Initiative
Mr. Abiodun commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for initiating the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, labeling it a bold and visionary undertaking. He noted that the project promises to create significant economic opportunities for Ogun State while also enhancing trade, investment, tourism, and regional connectivity throughout Nigeria.
Project Progress and Assurances from Officials
The governor reported that he has received updated assurances from project officials regarding the timely completion of the 28-kilometer section in Ogun. He highlighted that the government has strategically planned the road’s alignment to support the proposed Ogun Deep Sea Port, ensuring that the expressway will run within three to five kilometers of the coastline.
Addressing Infrastructure Gaps for Port Development
Governor Abiodun pointed out that the lack of an efficient evacuation route has posed significant challenges to the development of a deep-sea port. The only existing access route, the Sagami-Benin Expressway, is situated approximately 35 kilometers from the coast. He remarked on the newfound interest in establishing ports in Ogun Waterside due to the proximity of the coastal road to the coastline.
Revived Investor Confidence and Maritime Developments
Highlighting the impact of improved road connectivity, Mr. Abiodun noted that the coastal corridor has become increasingly attractive to investors, fostering major maritime and industrial initiatives. He also revealed ongoing discussions with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) aimed at revitalizing the long-dormant Olokola Liquefied Natural Gas (OKLNG) project, with increased oil exploration activities planned to establish commercial reserves in the region.
A Vision for Economic Transformation
According to the governor, the combination of the coastal expressway, the deep-sea port initiative, oil exploration, and the revitalized OKLNG project is poised to transform Ogun Waterside into one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing economic corridors. This development is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs while expanding the state’s revenue base.
Forward-looking Infrastructure Initiatives
Mr. Abiodun confidently stated that the Ogun State Deep Sea Port will emerge as a premier facility in sub-Saharan Africa, unmatched by any other port in Nigeria. Plans to establish a naval base and shipyard within the port complex have also been unveiled to bolster maritime security and support commercial shipping operations.
Commitment to Infrastructure and Socio-economic Growth
Reflecting on the historical neglect faced by Ogun Waterside, the governor expressed his determination to reverse the trend through consistent investment in roads and essential infrastructure, thereby preparing local governments for what he termed an impending socio-economic transformation. He announced soon-to-begin reconstruction of the J4-Gao road and additional repairs to connect the route to Abighi, the local government headquarters.
Balanced Development Across Ogun State
Mr. Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to balanced development across all 20 local governments in Ogun State, underscoring that infrastructure initiatives are being equitably distributed to fulfill the promise of comprehensive development for every region.
