Shola Akinyele
A heated national conversation has erupted over the true cost of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, as Nigerians and analysts continue to question Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, on the exact cost per kilometer of the multi-trillion-naira project.
The controversy was reignited after Umahi’s latest remarks describing himself as a “senior engineer” and “electrician” in response to critics who accused him of deflecting questions rather than providing clear figures.
Umahi had earlier explained the difference between estimated cost and average cost per kilometer, describing the former as a projection based on early designs and assumptions, while the latter reflects actual expenditures after significant progress on the project.
However, many Nigerians argue that his clarification still avoided the central question — “What is the approved cost per kilometer?”
“Beautiful grammar, but the real question is which one did you present to the Federal Executive Council? Which one did you submit to the banks? Which one did you use to justify this multi-trillion-naira project that is now displacing homes and businesses?” a political commentator asked in a trending video tagged #ATruthAtATime on X (formerly Twitter).
Observers insist that if public funds are being spent, Nigerians deserve to know which figure — the estimated or average cost — was used to secure the project’s approval and financing.
The viral commentary emphasized that the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) 2011 guarantees every Nigerian the right to access contract details, including costs, procurement processes, and financing structures of public projects.
“This is not an emotional demand. It is a constitutional right,” the speaker said. “Section 2, Subsection 3 of the FOI Act mandates transparency in all public institutions, including the Ministry of Works.”
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project — spanning 700 kilometers and expected to link major coastal cities — has faced scrutiny since its launch for allegedly high costs, property demolitions, and limited public consultation.
While Umahi insists there is no ambiguity in the project’s finances, calls for the ministry to publish official documents detailing the approved cost structure, funding source, and loan terms have intensified.
“In democracy, seniority doesn’t override accountability,” the commentary concluded. “If there’s no ambiguity, then publish the document. Tell Nigerians what was submitted, what was approved, and at what rate. Until then, one question remains unanswered: How much is a kilometer?”
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