An X handler, @omoelerinjare, has expressed concerns about a part of the coastal road being void of drainages.
Lamenting on his X page, he wrote, “15 trillion naira for Lagos-Calabar, no drainage update. A concerned citizen stated, make una come to build drainage.
“Your excellency, the Minister of Works, please sir, I am on the coastal road, and I do not know why drainage has not been put in the right position here. I just want to show you to let you know if this is not going to be a problem. I would advise that you call your engineer down to rectify this.
“This is not the only place; we have this on several parts of the road, and this is behind the Charterhouse School on Ogombo Road, Ajah, very close to Landmark Estate Meridian Boulevard.”
Reacting to the X post, another user, @CORTEZ_XI, wrote, “Nigeria has proper engineering problems. Most times it looks like they don’t put weather and environment into consideration when embarking on projects, or else this problem would have been foreseen and put into consideration when constructing the road.”
@brizboi007 stated, “Weather or no weather, boss, drainage should be included; it’s just quacks with connections getting those jobs.”
@Dammmeey added, “Truly, they should have thought of the drainage before the road itself, and it’s more about them wanting to do it for the ‘gram’ rather than quacks, imo. It’s not even a Nigerian company that is in charge of the job; I said from the start that it’s a ghost project.”
While @xunday34 stated, “I’m not sure it’s a good use of money to have that kind of drainage the whole length of the road, but this particular axis should have one. They built an elaborate one around VI. I wonder why they’re not continuing it through the Lagos sections.”
Reacting to the development, an architect and infrastructure development consultant, who also doubles as a lecturer and researcher at the University of Ibadan, Ola Olaniyan, noted that earthworks and drainage works are critical parts of road construction.
He explained, “In best practices, the structural drainage works should be concluded prior to soil stabilisation and before the construction of base and sub-base courses.
“The Lagos-Calabar coastal road is situated in a relatively unstable terrain predominantly inundated with swamps and marshland. In consideration of the peculiarities of the terrain, the road was designed and constructed with reinforced concrete. This is remarkably one of a kind, embarked on a grand scale by the Federal Government of Nigeria. It is, therefore, surprising that such a laudable road project was constructed without the requisite consideration and attention paid to drainage and stormwater channelisation along the road carriageway. The construction of the road carriageway should not have been concluded without the construction of stormwater drains and channels, as witnessed in sections of the coastal road. This neglect of a critical aspect of the coastal road construction works illustrates the cosmetic approach to public works and infrastructure in Nigeria. Emphasis was placed upon the road carriageway without the construction of ancillary facilities and infrastructure in order to paint a picture of a fast-paced execution of the coastal road project.
“The washing away of the earth abutting the coastal carriageway as well as the erosion of the stabilised sub-base of the road would have been prevented if emphasis was equally placed on the construction of stormwater drains and channels.”
Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of Magnificent Choice Services Project and Engineering Ltd, Jeremiah Akinsele, said the road is still under construction, and it’s reasonable to assume that the necessary infrastructure, including drainage systems, will be put in place before its completion. Given the magnitude of this project, it’s unlikely that the constructors would overlook such a crucial aspect.
He added, “I am confident that the design includes provisions for drainage to effectively manage water flow and prevent potential damage to the infrastructure.
“The drainage system will likely be designed to channel water into the lagoon or other designated areas, ensuring that the road remains functional and safe for users. It’s reassuring to know that the relevant authorities are working on this project, and I’m sure they’ll take all necessary measures to ensure its durability and sustainability. With proper planning and execution, this road will be a valuable asset for the community, supporting economic growth and development.”
The President of Fajiri Construction Limited, Stephen Eke, noted that the project is a significant development initiative that holds great promise for Nigeria’s future.
He advised, “Drawing inspiration from the transformations in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, it’s essential to ensure that this project is executed with utmost care and attention to detail. However, it’s concerning to see the rush to complete the project without properly assessing the work of contractors on site.
“As the government has invested a huge amount in this road, it’s imperative that drainage and flood control measures are integrated into the project. These are not just add-ons but essential components that can make or break the road’s functionality and longevity. I still believe that these critical aspects will be addressed towards the end stage of the construction.
“My wish and focus are that Nigeria realises the real core value of sustainable development. By prioritising quality, safety, and environmental sustainability, we can create infrastructure that not only serves our current needs but also benefits future generations. It’s time for Nigeria to articulate its development goals and strategies, balancing progress with responsibility and foresight. By doing so, we can create a brighter future for our nation.”
In an exclusive interview with The Punch, the Minister’s Special Adviser (Media), Orji Uchenna Orji, stated that the road was still a work in progress.
He said, “Some of these things are in the procedure of road construction; you can decide to do pavement before doing the drainage, and part of the reason is to appreciate the terrain and the solidity of the shoulders.
“It is not out of place, and I am pretty sure that it is not part of the place commissioned; it is a work in progress, and it is not an issue.”
