Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has called on the Federal Government to provide detailed explanations of reported changes to sections of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and reports of a proposed loan of up to $20 billion linked to the project.
Atiku made the demand on Monday through Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council.
He urged the Minister of Works, David Umahi, to publish the project’s original feasibility studies, environmental assessments, design documents and route maps alongside any revised plans.
The former vice-president also called for the disclosure of relevant contract details, including variations, approvals and payment certificates, arguing that Nigerians should be able to understand how major infrastructure projects are planned, financed and executed.
Calls for transparency over project changes
Atiku said the government should explain the differences between the highway’s original and revised routes and clarify which sections, if any, would no longer be constructed.
He also demanded information on how much had already been paid, the financial implications of the reported changes and the project’s revised cost.
His intervention centres on questions of public accountability, particularly where changes to a major infrastructure project could affect its scope, budget and expected benefits.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is a significant federal infrastructure undertaking intended to improve connectivity along Nigeria’s southern coastline. Projects of this scale involve substantial public expenditure and can have long-term implications for transport, commerce, land use and regional development.
However, claims about specific route changes, the proposed loan and the financial implications require confirmation through official project documents and statements from the relevant authorities.
Financing and accountability remain key issues
Large infrastructure projects typically require detailed planning, environmental assessments, land acquisition, procurement arrangements and funding structures.
Publishing the relevant documents would allow citizens, investors and independent observers to assess whether changes to the project are supported by clear technical and financial justifications.
Atiku’s demand also places renewed attention on the importance of transparent procurement and public disclosure in the management of federal infrastructure spending.
The Federal Government’s response will be important in clarifying the status of the reported rerouting and proposed financing arrangements.
Ultimately, the assessment of the highway will depend on its final scope, construction progress, cost, quality and ability to deliver the promised transport and economic benefits.