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By Chukwuma Umeorah
The Federal Government has begun disbursing N2.75 billion as compensation to property owners affected by the ongoing construction of the 700-kilometer Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
Minister of Works and Housing, David Umahi, announced the disbursement during a flag-off event in Lagos on Wednesday. He assured that the compensation would be distributed in batches, with the initial N2.75 billion covering properties affected within Channels 0 to 3 of the project.
“We assure affected owners that they will receive their entitlements promptly,” Umahi stated. “The modalities have been completed, and they will begin receiving their alerts before the close of tomorrow.”
Highlighting the government’s commitment, Umahi emphasized, “Many doubted our commitment to fulfill these obligations, but we stand firm under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Our policies are yielding tangible results, as evidenced by today’s disbursements. We are committed to delivering the dividends of democracy to every Nigerian.”
Addressing the complexity of the decision-making process, Umahi emphasized the economic rationale behind such actions. He stressed that tough decisions and sacrifices must be made for the greater economic good.
Regarding the demolition of the Landmark Beach property, which sparked controversy, Umahi clarified that the demolition was not an act of inhumanity but rather a reclamation of shorelines rightfully owned by the state. He lamented the politicization of the issue and reaffirmed the government’s stance on compensating affected parties based on established rates.
Some businesses receiving compensation include Mamichula Beach, Kingfisher, Kingston and Arthur, Moist Beach, Kids Club, and Maxtivity, among others.
Bolaji Areyoh, the owner of Mamichula Beach, the largest infrastructure displaced within this phase, expressed understanding of the sacrifices involved. He affirmed the project’s potential to benefit numerous Nigerians and urged affected parties to cooperate with the government.
Federal Comptroller of Works, Lagos State, O.I. Kesha, confirmed the Coastal Highway’s continued development. “The disbursement for the initial 1-3 kilometres marks a definitive step forward, with affected parties receiving their compensation directly into their bank accounts,” addressing any scepticism surrounding the government’s commitment.
