The Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, has said that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is projected to contribute as much as $12 billion annually to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) within its first decade—an economic windfall he believes will reshape the nation’s infrastructure and trade dynamics for years to come.
Uzodimma said this during the official inauguration of the 30-kilometre Section One of the coastal highway in Lagos on Saturday, while praising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to infrastructural development, despite criticisms surrounding the ambitious project.
“Today is not just another calendar date,” Uzodimma began.
“It is a landmark moment in our collective journey towards economic transformation and infrastructural-driven prosperity.
“While others were busy doubting, Mr. President was busy delivering. He kept his eyes on the vision, not the distractions,” Uzodimma stated.
“That is the mark of a leader who understands not just what Nigeria needs, but how to get it done.
“The Lagos-Calabar coastal highway is one of the boldest infrastructural investments in our nation’s history, and it is so much more.
“It’s more than a road. It is not just a road. It is projected to contribute up to US$12 billion annually to Nigerian GDP in its first decade.
“By connecting nine coastal states, linking major ports, and unlocking key trade routes, this highway will drive growth, both in agriculture, in industry, in tourism, and marine commerce.”
Describing the project as a cornerstone of the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Uzodimma said the highway exemplifies governance with purpose and clarity.
“This is what it means to govern with purpose. This is what it means to walk the talk,” he said. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda is not just a slogan—it is a strategic roadmap already in motion.”
In his remarks, the Imo state governor also recognised the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, for his dedicated oversight of the project, and commended the contractors, Hitech Construction Company, for the quality of work delivered.
Uzodimma concluded by calling the coastal highway a defining chapter in Nigeria’s journey toward economic transformation, asserting that history will remember President Tinubu as the transformative leader the country waited decades to have.
“Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will really deserve a chapter in the history of this country.
“Mr. President, this is yet another promise kept,” he said.
“And like millions of Nigerians across the country, we are eagerly looking forward to more, because we know you have a rich menu.”
