The Federal Government met with those affected by the demolition of properties along the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway to discuss compensation modalities. Residents of Okun-Ajah community in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State, expressed joy when Works Minister Dave Umahi announced plans for compensation.
Minister Umahi stated that the government reverted to the gazetted alignment of the Right of Way (RoW) for the coastal highway project, which is meant to address environmental issues and compensate affected property owners within the 700-kilometer coastal road.
Urging stakeholders to cooperate, Umahi emphasized the economic benefits of the project, facilitated by President Bola Tinubu's intervention to save houses and businesses in the community. He highlighted the significant reduction in affected properties: 495 structures would be demolished under the new alignment, compared to 750 under the initial alignment.
During the meeting, Umahi asked stakeholders whether they preferred the initial or the realignment path. Those in favor of the old alignment raised their hands, leading Umahi to announce the government's decision to revert to the old alignment.
President Tinubu is set to flag off the project on May 26, with a directive for simultaneous work on all project ends to ensure timely completion. During the meeting, ten individuals affected by the demolition received compensation.
