FG renames Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway after Tinubu

FG Renames Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway After President Tinubu

By ZongoPlus News Desk | July 17, 2026

The Federal Government has officially renamed the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Coastal Highway, saying the move recognizes President Bola Tinubu's role in conceiving the landmark infrastructure project.

Minister of Works David Umahi announced the decision during a media briefing in Abuja, explaining that the ministry approved the renaming in consultation with senior officials of the Federal Ministry of Works.

Umahi Explains the Decision

According to Umahi, the highway was one of Tinubu's long-standing infrastructure ideas dating back to his time as Governor of Lagos State.

The minister said naming the project after the president was intended to recognize his vision and commitment to delivering one of Nigeria's largest road infrastructure projects.

"That highway is named President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Coastal Highway," Umahi said while announcing the decision.

About the Highway

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is one of the Federal Government's flagship infrastructure projects. When completed, it will stretch for about 700–750 kilometres, linking Lagos to Calabar and passing through several coastal states.

The project is expected to:

Improve transportation along Nigeria's southern corridor.

Boost tourism and regional trade.

Enhance connectivity between major economic hubs.

Create employment opportunities during and after construction.

Mixed Public Reactions

The announcement has sparked debate among Nigerians.

Supporters say the renaming is a fitting tribute to the president's role in initiating the project and reflects the significance of the highway to Nigeria's long-term development.

Critics, however, argue that major national infrastructure projects are typically named after individuals only after completion or in recognition of broader historical contributions. The renaming is expected to remain a topic of political discussion in the coming days.

Construction Continues

Construction is ongoing on multiple sections of the highway, with the Federal Government describing the coastal road as a strategic investment that will strengthen commerce, reduce travel times, and improve access between Nigeria's coastal communities. Officials have also announced extensions and additional connecting routes as part of the broader infrastructure programme.

Looking Ahead

The renaming marks another milestone in the development of the coastal highway, but attention will remain focused on the pace of construction, funding, and the project's long-term economic impact as work progresses across the country.