By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – A coalition of Niger Delta youth groups and community stakeholders has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it described as visible and tangible progress on the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, saying the project has moved from promise to reality.

The commendation followed an inspection tour by youth leaders under the Amalgamation of Niger Delta Community Youth Leaders (ANDCYL) and stakeholders from Okobo Community in Akwa Ibom State.

Those who spoke during the tour included the coalition’s spokesperson, Comrade Isaac Edet Okon; Comrade Albert Monday Isanghedighe, an opinion leader from Akpa Utong Community; and Comrade Saviour John Asawana, a stakeholder representing Afaha Akai Community.

The inspection covered strategic sections of the highway within Esit Eket Community linking Uruakok and Akpa Utong villages; Urue Offong Local Government Area connecting Ikpe Oron Community; and Okobo LGA linking Udung Uloh and Afaha Akai communities, where construction activities are ongoing.

Okon described the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road as one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in Nigeria’s recent history, stressing its economic and strategic importance to the Niger Delta and the country.

“This landmark initiative is a blessing to the nation. Many of us thought the project existed only on paper, but today, even the blind can attest to the level of progress already achieved.

“We highly commend the Federal Government and Hitech for this remarkable feat achieved so far,” Okon added.

In separate remarks, Isanghedighe and Asawana commended the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and the supervising Ministry of Works for their oversight and support in ensuring the success of the project.

They also praised Hitech Engineering Company for its professionalism in human resource management and adherence to international infrastructure standards.

“The impact of this project is already evident. Youths are meaningfully engaged, local economies are thriving, and the communities are experiencing renewed hope.
This clearly shows that the government has the people at heart,” they said.

The stakeholders expressed satisfaction with the community-engagement strategy adopted by the Project Manager, Engr. Joseph Matah, particularly in youth employment and sustained engagement with local leaders.

They said the highway, when completed, would open up the region, ease the movement of goods and services, and boost local commerce across coastal communities.

“Despite the heavy rains experienced in the latter part of 2025, the progress recorded in 2026 is commendable. This demonstrates the contractor’s resilience and commitment,” they added.

The youth leaders described the project as a catalyst for socioeconomic development, sustainable peace, and long-term growth, noting that increased youth engagement has already contributed to a reduction in insecurity and community tensions.

They commended the Federal Government for initiating the project, saying their communities are now firmly placed on the national development map, with renewed prospects for recognition, inclusion, and growth.