Hitech Construction Company Limited has held a stakeholder engagement session with residents of Ibeju-Lekki over the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.
Epe Insights reports that the session created an avenue for residents to express concerns, expectations, and aspirations regarding the project.
The meeting took place at Eleko Town Hall, bringing together community leaders and key stakeholders.
Representatives of the construction firm emphasized the importance of dialogue and community inclusion in project execution.
During the engagement, the Community Relations Manager, Prince David Omagboni, highlighted the Supplementary Resettlement Action Plan (SRAP). He explained that the process would reassess affected persons and assets, address grievances, and ensure transparency in compensation.
He noted that the SRAP would focus strictly on individuals impacted within the existing Right-of-Way. The process is being handled in collaboration with Dynasmart Resources Limited, the firm engaged as consultant for the exercise.
Community leaders, however, raised concerns over the 150-meter setback directive introduced for the project. They warned that the policy could affect ancestral heritage, cultural landmarks, and livelihoods across coastal communities.
Gbadebo Fatai Labiya, who also chairs the Ibeju-Lekki Ancestral Coastal Communities, expressed fears about the long-term impact. He appealed for a total waiver, stressing the need to protect heritage sites and community identity.
Similarly, Adebayo Agbabiaka emphasized the need to balance development with preservation. He questioned the value of project benefits if communities risk losing their historical roots.
Other stakeholders, including Nicholas Akobada, echoed similar concerns. They urged authorities to carefully consider the implications of the setback on affected settlements.
In response, Hitech representatives acknowledged the issues raised and assured participants that their concerns would be forwarded to relevant authorities. They reiterated commitment to continuous engagement and transparency.
A Grievance Redress Committee meeting has been scheduled for April 4, 2026. The meeting is expected to address concerns surrounding the setback and other project-related matters.
Community members also commended Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing infrastructure development efforts. They expressed optimism that government intervention would address their concerns while sustaining progress.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project remains a major infrastructure initiative. Stakeholders continue to call for a balanced approach that promotes development while safeguarding community heritage.
