A pan-Igbo group known as Igbodike Movement has commended President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and Minister for Works, Engr Dave Umahi, for the ongoing construction of Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, describing it as key towards jumpstarting socioeconomic development in the old Eastern Nigeria.
The body noted that successful administrations in the country never saw the economic potential of the coastal highway, adding that with the Tinubu administration making great efforts at linking Eastern and Western Nigeria, it speaks of great multiplier effects in the economy of the country.
To this end, the Igbodike Movement, led by its National Coordinator, Dr Peter Nwankwo, urges the South East and South South to re-elect President Tinubu in order to actualise the completion of the project.
Speaking to reporters in Awka this Wednesday, Nwankwo explained, “Igbodike Movement, an Igbo socio-political movement, declares support for the reelection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second term in office to enable his administration complete the Lagos to Calabar coastal highway being constructed by Hon. Dave Umahi, the minister of works”
“The construction of the Lagos to Calabar coastal highway by President Tinubu’s administration through the Ministry of Works is expected to bring about several economic, developmental, and infrastructural gains for Nigeria”
“Igbodike Movement noted that completion of the coastal highway will improve connectivity between Lagos and Calabar, two major economic hubs in Nigeria”
Nwankwo further posited that the project would enhance trade and commerce along the coastal routes for sustainable development.
“This will enhance trade and commerce along the route, leading to increased economic activities, job creation, and overall economic growth”
“The highway will also provide easier access to ports, improving the efficiency of the transportation of goods and reducing logistics costs”
“The construction of the highway will open up previously underserved areas along the coastal corridor, promoting development in these regions”
“Improved transportation infrastructure will facilitate the movement of people and goods, allowing for greater access to markets, schools, healthcare facilities, and other essential services. This will contribute to the overall development of communities along the route”
“Igbodike Movement observed that the coastal highway will also lead to the development of associated infrastructure such as bridges, culverts, drainage systems, and rest stops.”
“This will enhance road safety, reduce travel times, and improve the overall quality of transportation infrastructure in the region”
“Additionally, the project is expected to create employment opportunities and stimulate local industries involved in construction and related sectors”
“The coastal highway is poised to have significant economic, developmental, and infrastructural benefits for Nigeria, contributing to the country’s overall growth and development”
“Igbodike Movement believe that President Tinubu’s second term will ensure continuity and completion of critical projects that will benefit the country as a whole.
We also appreciate the effort of Minister Dave Umahi in enhancing infrastructure and development across the nation,” he said.
