Donald Duke Raises Concerns Over Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project
Former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke, has called for a more critical assessment of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, saying the multi-billion-naira infrastructure project should be carefully scrutinized to ensure it delivers lasting economic benefits without undermining existing coastal assets.
Duke, who is widely credited with transforming Calabar into one of Nigeria's leading tourism destinations during his time in office and championing the state's port economy, said his views are informed by years of experience in coastal development rather than political considerations.
According to the former governor, major infrastructure projects of such magnitude should be evaluated not only on their immediate economic promise but also on their long-term environmental, commercial, and social implications.
He argued that while improved road infrastructure has the potential to boost trade, tourism, and regional connectivity, careful planning is essential to ensure that the project complements existing economic assets, including ports, coastal communities, and tourism investments.
Duke emphasized that sustainable development requires balancing infrastructure expansion with environmental protection and strategic economic planning.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, one of the Federal Government's flagship infrastructure projects, is expected to stretch across several coastal states, linking Lagos to Cross River through a modern highway network. Government officials have described the project as a catalyst for economic growth, improved transportation, tourism development, and job creation.
Supporters of the project argue that the highway will reduce travel time, stimulate investment, enhance interstate commerce, and unlock new opportunities along Nigeria's coastline.
However, the project has also attracted criticism from some stakeholders, including environmental experts, urban planners, and community groups, who have raised concerns about its environmental impact, compensation for affected property owners, and implementation strategy.
Duke's remarks add another perspective to the ongoing national conversation, particularly given his background in developing Cross River's tourism industry and advocating for greater utilization of the state's maritime potential.
Political and economic analysts note that constructive criticism from experienced public officials can contribute to improving large-scale national projects by encouraging transparency, better planning, and broader stakeholder engagement.
They also stress that infrastructure projects of this scale benefit from continuous public consultation to ensure they achieve their intended objectives while minimizing unintended consequences.
The Federal Government has consistently defended the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, maintaining that all necessary environmental and engineering assessments are being carried out in line with applicable regulations.
As construction progresses, discussions surrounding the project's economic value, environmental sustainability, and long-term impact are expected to continue among policymakers, experts, and the public.
For many Nigerians, the success of the coastal highway will ultimately be measured not only by its completion but also by its ability to drive inclusive economic growth, support coastal communities, and strengthen regional development for decades to come.