Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway: Landmark’s Onwuanibe Urges FG to Return to Original Plan

The Group Chief Executive Officer of Landmark Group, Paul Onwuanibe, has urged the Nigerian government to revert to the original plan for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, which would avoid the demolition of Landmark Beach Resort.

According to Onwuanibe, the original alignment of the coastal road was Water Corporation Road, but it has been revised to pass through the beachfront of Landmark, threatening the resort’s existence.

Onwuanibe suggested that by returning to the original plan, the government could save businesses that would otherwise be destroyed and also save money and manpower.

He highlighted that the original alignment would not require land reclamation or engineering work, thereby avoiding the need for compensation and destruction of businesses.

The Landmark CEO emphasized that he supports the construction of the coastal road, noting that it would enhance tourism and connect different tourism entities.

However, he stressed the importance of finding a solution that allows Landmark to survive and thrive alongside the coastal road.

Reacting to the Lagos State government’s evacuation notice and demolition notice, Onwuanibe described the situation as “absurd,” given that Landmark has been operating for 17 years, employs over 3,500 people, and attracts over 4 million visitors annually.

He also mentioned that there were no prior discussions or negotiations regarding compensation before the notices were issued.

Onwuanibe further pointed out the significant investments, efforts, and dedication that have gone into developing Landmark over the years.

He expressed his belief that the coastal road project and Landmark can coexist, as the resort is located within the first 1.5 kilometers of the 700-kilometer road.

Efforts are currently underway to address the issue, with a stakeholders’ meeting scheduled to take place in a couple of days.

Onwuanibe has engaged with various government ministries and departments, including the federal ministry of works, the federal ministry of tourism, the Lagos state ministry of tourism, and the Lagos state government.

Onwuanibe’s plea to the Nigerian government to return to the original plan for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway represents a call for a win-win solution that would preserve Landmark Beach Resort and benefit the tourism industry while also ensuring the successful completion of the coastal road project.