Landmark’s Facilities Unaffected in Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Construction, Assures Umahi

The Minister of Works, has clarified that no permanent structures or jobs will be lost at Landmark beach and resort during the construction of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway.

Umahi’s statement comes in response to concerns about the impact of the 700km highway project on the popular tourism destination.

During his visit to Landmark on Wednesday, Umahi personally assessed the situation and assured that only a 15-meter portion of the shoreline and some shanties along that line will be affected by the construction.

All other facilities within the resort will remain intact.

“I went to see Landmark yesterday. I had to tour that shoreline and he is not the only one that is involved. We had a very good chat.

I went there to understand something. His Excellency said that twelve thousand jobs will be lost and I told Landmark that by what we are doing, no jobs will be lost.

What could be lost is the shoreline and the people that go to play at the shoreline, but his facilities are all intact because we reduced the corridor to 15 meters and we saw that there are no permanent structures other than a few shanties along that shoreline that are affected,” Umahi stated.

Umahi emphasized that the government’s decision to only require a 15-meter section of the shoreline from Landmark is a gesture of magnanimity, and that the Supreme Court has ruled that the land belongs to the federal government.

This ruling, however, does not affect the infrastructure and operations of Landmark.

The Minister also addressed concerns regarding the Third Mainland Bridge, noting that plans for its rehabilitation are in motion.

He highlighted the bridge’s age and the need for proactive maintenance, citing that most of the country’s bridges were constructed over 50 years ago.

“I am a Nigerian and I don’t believe in saying these people are for me and all, even when I was governor, that was my position.

The Third Mainland Bridge job was awarded by the previous administration and was awarded to an indigenous company and it is supposed to be limited rehabilitation.

Limited rehabilitation almost destroyed that bridge, because that bridge was designed to have a dead load of Asphalt of 2 inches but over the years, you have between four inches and fourteen inches on that bridge,” Umahi explained.

Umahi also shared plans to establish an observation room on the islands of the Third Mainland Bridge, which will enhance emergency response capabilities.

The room will house a small jetty and CCTV, allowing for quick action in case of any issues.

The Minister’s assurances on the minimal impact of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway construction on Landmark’s facilities and operations provide relief for the tourism destination and its employees.

The construction of the highway is a significant infrastructure project aimed at connecting Lagos with Calabar, and it is expected to bring economic benefits to the region.