Lagos-Calabar Highway Excluded from 2025 Budget: A Major Setback for Nigeria
The proposed 2025 federal budget has unexpectedly omitted funding for the highly anticipated Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road. This significant infrastructure project could transform Nigeria’s economic landscape. However, its exclusion raises alarm bells among stakeholders who view the highway as a crucial catalyst for regional integration and economic growth.
The Importance of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway spans approximately 700 kilometers. It connects nine states, starting from Victoria Island in Lagos and ending in Calabar, Cross River State. This project promises to enhance connectivity across the nation while creating job opportunities and fostering trade. Unfortunately, without any budgetary allocation, concerns mount over the future of this transformative initiative.
Concerns from Stakeholders
BudgIT, a civic-tech organization that advocates for transparency in governance, has expressed deep concern regarding this omission. In their statement released on January 9, BudgIT highlighted that the lack of funding for such a capital-intensive project could force the government to reallocate resources from other critical areas. This situation could undermine the credibility of the entire budget. Nancy Odimegwu, BudgIT’s Communications Associate, emphasized that this situation might hinder essential projects aimed at job creation and poverty reduction.
Economic Implications of the Road
The economic implications of this exclusion are profound. Experts argue that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road is not merely a transportation route; it represents a lifeline for many communities along its path. By improving access to markets and services, the highway is expected to bolster local economies and facilitate trade. For instance, small-scale farmers in Akwa Ibom would gain better access to larger markets, while artisans in Ondo could reach new customers more efficiently.
Moreover, the highway is projected to generate nearly 10,000 direct jobs and an additional 15,000 indirect jobs in related sectors such as logistics and raw materials supply. This potential for job creation underscores the urgent need for government investment in infrastructure that supports inclusive economic growth.
Improving Connectivity by Road
The highway aims to significantly reduce travel time between Lagos and Calabar—from an arduous 14 hours to just 7 hours. This improvement enhances overall connectivity within Nigeria. Such advancements are vital for attracting foreign direct investment and positioning Nigeria as a competitive player on the global stage.
A Call for Accountability
The exclusion of funding for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road is particularly concerning given Nigeria’s pressing need for improved transportation networks. Severe traffic congestion in urban areas like Lagos stifles productivity and increases operational costs for businesses. Additionally, the deteriorating state of roads in other regions complicates trade and agricultural transport. Hence, the coastal highway emerges as a beacon of hope for addressing these infrastructural challenges.
However, as discussions about this project continue, one must question what happens to properties destroyed during its proposed construction. Many homes and businesses were demolished under the pretext of making way for progress. Without clear plans or compensation for those affected, these communities face uncertainty and loss while waiting for a project that may never materialize.
As discussions around the budget unfold in the National Assembly, stakeholders are calling for a transparent review process that prioritizes projects aligned with national development goals. BudgIT urges lawmakers to exercise their “Powers of the Purse” responsibly by ensuring that public funds reflect the needs of Nigerians—particularly those focused on job creation and poverty alleviation.
Broader Issues in Fiscal Management
The outcry over this budget exclusion also highlights broader issues within Nigeria’s fiscal management practices. Critics have pointed out that recurring omissions in budget allocations raise questions about accountability and governance. Furthermore, the absence of detailed breakdowns for several government agencies complicates efforts to ensure transparency in public spending.
The Future of Infrastructure Development
As Nigeria strives to enhance its infrastructure and stimulate economic growth, it becomes increasingly clear that projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road are essential components of this vision. The potential benefits extend beyond mere transportation improvements; they encompass social development by enhancing access to education and healthcare services in underserved areas.
In conclusion, excluding funding for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road from the proposed 2025 budget represents a significant setback for Nigeria’s infrastructure development agenda. As stakeholders rally for accountability and transparency in governance, it remains crucial that lawmakers prioritize investments in projects capable of driving economic transformation and improving quality of life across the nation.
