President Bola Tinubu, in collaboration with the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, initiated the demolition of a portion of the Landmark Beach in Lagos. This action marks the beginning of the much-anticipated Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.
Dave Umahi, the former governor of Ebonyi State, commenced the demolition after conducting an inspection of kilometres 13, 16, and 20. The inspection aimed to identify the most cost-effective and feasible method to establish access to the coastal roads while minimizing damage.
Umahi emphasized the necessity of the demolition, given that the Landmark Centre is situated on the Federal Government’s Right-of-way. He highlighted that several structures would be impacted by the demolition, but assured that adequate compensation would be provided.
Umahi stated, “With deep reverence for God, gratitude to the Almighty, and commitment to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in our infrastructural development agenda, I am initiating this demolition. It is within the coastal corridor’s right-of-way, which is a legitimate right of the Federal Government.”
He also acknowledged the opposition to the project but insisted on its importance for economic development. He reassured those affected by the demolition that they would receive compensation, with documentation commencing between May 2 and May 3.
In response, Mr Bolaji Ariyo, the Chief Executive Officer of Mami Chula Beach, recognized the project’s necessity for development, despite the inconvenience it may cause to a minority.