The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Ministry of Works to review its proposed realignment of the landmark Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project and revert to the original route design through the Ondo and Delta State coastal corridors.
The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, highlighting the critical socio-economic implications of bypassing strategic coastal and oil-producing communities in the Niger Delta.
While acknowledging the Federal Government’s ambition to enhance interstate connectivity and economic integration through the highway, Hon. Ereyitomi expressed grave concern over plans to alter the project’s original path due to difficult geotechnical and swampy conditions.
The lawmaker noted that the proposed realignment bypasses key riverine communities in Delta State, particularly the Ogheye–Orere–Ugborodo–Escravos corridor. These areas host vital national infrastructure, including the Chevron tank farm, the Escravos Gas-to-Liquids (EGTL) Plant, and several domestic flow stations that drive Nigeria’s crude oil exports and foreign exchange earnings.
“Retaining the original coastal alignment would improve access to these critical economic hubs, streamline the movement of personnel and equipment, and broaden the highway’s true developmental benefits,” the motion emphasized.
Addressing the technical concerns raised by the Ministry of Works regarding weak subgrades and challenging subsoil conditions, the House noted that modern civil engineering offers proven, specialized solutions—such as soil stabilization, geosynthetics, piled foundations, reinforced embankments, and elevated viaducts—to overcome difficult terrain without sacrificing strategic connectivity.
The parliament warned that altering the route could compromise the project’s core objectives and called for a transparent, evidence-based assessment comparing the full lifecycle costs, environmental impacts, and long-term socio-economic trade-offs of any alternative alignment.
To ensure the project delivers maximum value for money while respecting the interests of host communities, the House resolved to:
Urge the Federal Ministry of Works to review the proposed realignment and retain the originally conceptualized route through the Ondo and Escravos–Ogheye–Ugborodo corridors.
Mandate the House Committee on Works to oversee the implementation of this resolution and present a report within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.
