The special assistant on security matters to the former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Bala Mohammed, Hon. Henry Nwazuruahu Shield, has questioned President Bola Tinubu’s decision to start the Coastal Highway project from the Lagos axis instead of the Calabar axis.
This has sparked speculation among Nigerians that the project may not extend to Calabar and could be a pretext to focus on Lagos.
Questioning the Project’s Trajectory
In a post on his X (Twitter) handle, Shield expressed his concern, stating, “In this Landmark matter, I have only one question; Why couldn’t the Coastal Highway be started from the Calabar axis?”
Nigerians’ Reactions
Several Nigerians have shared similar sentiments, suggesting that the project may not be intended to reach the Calabar axis, but rather serve as a cover-up to end it at Lagos and abandon it thereafter.
Some key reactions:
Roland Isiorho: “The answer is very clear. Tinubu is only interested in the Lagos end of it, since it will connect to his dream Eko Atlantic city.”
Shelta N Life Ltd 001: “Exactly same question I’ve been asking.. Why not start from Calabar, why only Lagos?”
Okakaodumodu: “The Lagos part of the project will be completed. Once it starts getting down south south, the project will stop and they will give numerous reasons like ‘community disturbance’.”
Kolade Kayode: “Oga Coastal High watin? How would they link Eko Atlantic Phase 1 and their new Eko Atlantic Phase 2 if not to start a Coastal High whatever.”
Ikpa Nnewi: “Because there is no intention to build a coastal road. We are only building an alternative to Lekki road to ease congestion for the rich and hike property value.”
Concerns about Completion and Intentions
Many Nigerians have expressed skepticism about the project’s completion, with some suggesting that it may be a cover-up for other interests, such as the development of Eko Atlantic City, which is closely linked to President Tinubu and the Chagoury Group.
The questions raised by Hon. Henry Nwazuruahu Shield and the reactions from Nigerians highlight the need for transparency and accountability in the implementation of major infrastructure projects, ensuring that they serve the broader interests of the nation and its citizens.
