(DDM) – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the inclusion of Edo State in the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, granting the state a 100-kilometre stretch of the multi-trillion-naira project that cuts across Nigeria’s southern corridor.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the announcement was made during the Edo State Independence Gala Night in Benin City on October 1, where the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, disclosed the presidential directive.
Umahi explained that the coastal highway, first conceived nearly 47 years ago, would now traverse nine states including Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River.
He noted that Edo was not originally included in the alignment, describing its addition as a significant adjustment made by the president.
“The coastal road was first dreamt by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu 47 years back, but sadly, Edo State was not included in the alignment. Today, the President has given Edo 100 kilometres of the highway,” Umahi said.
The works minister further praised Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for committing to address the terrible condition of the Benin–Sapele–Warri highway, which he labelled “a deathtrap to motorists.”
Governor Okpebholo, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to Tinubu for the inclusion, calling it “a manifestation of the extraordinary love of the President to the people of Edo State.”
He stressed that residents have long cried out for road rehabilitation, particularly the Benin–Sapele–Warri axis that has caused countless accidents and economic losses.
“Our people are crying out for this road to be fixed. If I do my part and you do your part, no one will criticize our president,” Okpebholo added.
The Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, estimated at over N15 trillion, has been one of Tinubu’s flagship infrastructure projects, designed to connect key oil-producing and commercial states while promoting tourism and trade.
However, the project has attracted heated controversy due to its massive cost, alleged lack of transparency in awarding contracts, and displacement of coastal communities along the alignment.
Analysts point out that while Edo’s inclusion may appear symbolic, many citizens remain skeptical. Critics argue that fixing existing highways such as the Benin–Sapele–Warri and Benin–Auchi–Okene roads would provide more immediate relief to road users than an ambitious highway that may take years to complete.
Historically, Edo and other Niger Delta states have suffered neglect in federal infrastructure planning despite contributing significantly to Nigeria’s oil revenues.
For many residents, Tinubu’s announcement is welcome, but the real test will be in implementation and delivery.
Observers also note the political undertones, with Edo preparing for upcoming governorship and federal elections.
Tinubu’s gesture may strengthen his party’s influence in the South-South, a region where federal goodwill has often been scarce.
For now, excitement and skepticism coexist in Edo as residents wait to see whether the coastal highway inclusion will transform into tangible development or remain another political promise.
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