Nigerians in the diaspora have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that ongoing works on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway do not compromise diaspora investments, particularly those tied to real estate and tourism developments along the corridor.
The $13 billion highway, spearheaded by Hitech Construction under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Works, has faced repeated criticism over alleged demolitions and limited compensation for affected property owners. With many of these properties reportedly funded by Nigerians abroad, diaspora groups are urging the government to guarantee fairness, transparency, and investor protection throughout the project’s execution.
Speaking during a virtual forum hosted by the Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), several stakeholders expressed concern that the project’s current approach could discourage future foreign remittances — a critical source of national income. Nigeria received over $20 billion in diaspora remittances in 2023, representing a key lifeline for the economy.
Infrastructure experts argue that while the highway is vital for economic expansion and regional connectivity, it must not come at the cost of property rights or investor confidence. Analysts are calling for clearer communication, legal clarity on compensation processes, and active stakeholder engagement with diaspora investors.
The Coastal Highway, expected to stretch over 700 kilometers from Lagos to Calabar, remains one of Nigeria’s most ambitious infrastructure projects. Its successful execution, observers note, will depend not only on technical excellence but also on maintaining trust with Nigerians at home and abroad.