FG’s Move to Shut Coastal Highway Called “Unnecessary” by NNPP’s Onu

In a political and economic twist on one of Nigeria’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has publicly criticised the **Federal Government’s suggestion to close parts of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, calling it unnecessary and disruptive to commuters and economic activity. The comments came from NNPP Deputy National Chairman Nweze Onu during a press engagement in Abuja. 

Why the Shutdown Threat Emerged

The Federal Ministry of Works, led by Engr. David Umahi, had previously hinted that a section of the coastal highway might be closed due to public safety concerns arising from reckless driving and traffic indiscipline — including wrong-way driving and speeding on stretches used while construction continues. This followed a temporary opening of a completed 47 km segment of the highway during the Yuletide season to ease congestion, which reportedly led to crashes and at least one fatality involving a construction worker. 

In response to that situation, authorities have warned they may shut down the highway if safety issues do not improve, signalling frustration at motorists whose disregard for traffic rules reportedly jeopardised both commuter safety and ongoing construction progress. 

Onu Says Closure ‘Unnecessary and Counterproductive’

Onu’s critique centers on the belief that closure should not be the default response when alternative, less disruptive measures exist. He argued that the government and contractors should prioritise:

Improved safety signage along the highway;

Clearly defined diversion and temporary access routes for motorists;

Traffic management plans that protect both workers and drivers without wholly restricting movement;

His position is that a total closure of such a critical transport artery — one that serves thousands of Nigerians and supports trade and daily commuting along the coastal corridor — would harm economic activity more than help. 

Broader Debates Around the Coastal Highway

The Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway is one of the flagship infrastructure projects of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. It is intended to transform Nigeria’s transportation network by linking the country’s entire southern coast across nine states, enhancing trade, mobility, and regional economic integration. So far, at least 47 km have been temporarily opened to traffic while construction continues on the broader 750 km route. 

Concerns have been raised by critics and stakeholders alike about balancing safety with accessibility on major infrastructure works. Instead of closing the highway entirely, many observers — including Onu — emphasise that proactive safety management and community engagement are more effective strategies. 

What This Means for Road Users and Policy

The debate reflects a deeper tension in Nigeria’s infrastructure rollout: how to ensure public safety, maintain traffic flow, and keep major development projects on schedule without disrupting livelihoods or commerce. Onu’s comments signal that political opposition figures and transport stakeholders are watching closely and pushing for decisions that prioritise both economic continuity and public convenience. 

As this story continues to evolve, the government’s next moves on safety enforcement, signage, traffic management, and possible closure decisions will be watched by both commuters and investors interested in Nigeria’s infrastructure future.