FG Pays N2.75bn Compensation for Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Demolition

The Federal Government has commenced the payment of N2.75 billion compensation to property owners affected by the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, signaling a major step in addressing concerns surrounding the large-scale demolition along the project corridor.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, during a stakeholder engagement meeting in Lagos State.

FG Allocates N2.75 Billion for Coastal Highway Compensation

Compensation Payment Begins Immediately

According to Umahi, the compensation disbursement is scheduled to begin immediately, with affected individuals expected to start receiving payments today.

He emphasized that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring that all impacted property owners are treated fairly throughout the process.

“We will do everything possible to ensure a human-face compensation,” Umahi stated, highlighting the government’s intention to ease the burden on those affected.

The Minister further disclosed that over N2 billion will be paid out in the first phase, covering properties located between Channel 0 and Channel 3.

First Set of Beneficiaries Receive Compensation

The compensation exercise officially commenced with payments to ten property owners. Among the first beneficiaries are:

  • Olaotan Olamuyiwa of Checkmate
  • Kemi Osinibi of Landmark Kids Club by Maxtivity

Other affected property owners have been advised to report to the Compensation Committee Secretariat to process their claims and complete the required documentation.

Deadline Pressure as FG Speeds Up Process

Umahi stressed the urgency of the compensation process, particularly for tenants and businesses operating within the Landmark axis.

He revealed that affected tenants are expected to receive payment alerts by 2:00 PM, urging all stakeholders to cooperate with the committee to avoid delays.

The Compensation Committee will also be available from 2:00 PM onward to facilitate document verification and signing.

Phase One Covers Initial Property Owners

The first phase of the compensation exercise includes ten property owners, with additional phases already planned.

This was confirmed by Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, who assured that the process will continue until all verified claims are settled.

About the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is a flagship infrastructure project of the Federal Government, launched in March. The project spans approximately 700 kilometers, connecting Lagos to Calabar while passing through nine states.

It also includes strategic extensions linking to Northern Nigeria, making it one of the most ambitious road projects in the country.

When completed, the highway is expected to:

  • Boost trade and economic activities
  • Improve inter-state transportation
  • Open up coastal regions for investment and tourism
  • Enhance regional connectivity across Nigeria

Growing Concerns and Government Response

While the project promises significant economic benefits, it has also raised concerns among affected communities, particularly regarding displacement and property loss.

The Federal Government’s compensation plan is seen as a critical step in addressing these concerns and maintaining public trust as construction progresses.

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