Inspection Team for Cross River federal road projects Visits Calabar-Itu Road and Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Projects
The Cross River State supervision team has officially commenced monitoring and inspection of ongoing federal road projects in the state, in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering quality infrastructure under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The supervision exercise forms part of strengthened oversight mechanisms established by the Federal Ministry of Works to ensure the timely execution and quality delivery of road projects across Nigeria under the leadership of the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi.
The inspection team comprised the Site Controller of the Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Yinka Onafuye, the South-South Zonal Supervisor, Mr. Okoli David, and the Cross River State Supervisor, Mr. Oja Johnson.
Inspection of Calabar-Itu Federal Highway
The supervisory team embarked on an extensive inspection of the Calabar-Itu Road, one of the most strategic federal highways connecting Cross River State to Akwa Ibom State and other parts of the South-South region.
The road project, being executed by Sermatech Nigeria Limited under the supervision of site agents led by Engr. Joseph Ukpata, has recorded significant progress.
During the inspection, the team observed that one carriageway from the asphalt termination point towards the Calabar axis has been substantially completed, while construction activities continue on the second carriageway.
Several sections of the road are currently at the gravel stage, while grading and earthworks are ongoing in other parts of the project corridor.
Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Records Significant Progress
The inspection team also visited sections of the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project, currently being executed by Hitech Construction Company.
At the Okrikang axis, inspectors observed ongoing construction activities on one carriageway following the completion of another section of the highway.
The team further proceeded to Section 3B at Awi Community, where substantial progress has been achieved.
According to the inspection findings, both carriageways in the area have been completed and fitted with modern infrastructure, including:
- Streetlights
- Pedestrian walkways
- Drainage systems
- Median separators
Despite the significant progress recorded, the Site Controller disclosed that the completed sections have not yet been opened to public use, as adjoining portions of the highway are still under construction.
Contractors Highlight Challenges Affecting Project Delivery
During interactions with the supervisory team, contractors identified several challenges affecting the smooth execution of the projects.
Among the concerns raised were issues relating to community interference over compensation matters, which have reportedly contributed to delays in scheduled construction activities.
The contractors also highlighted the high intensity of rainfall within the project areas as a major challenge, noting that adverse weather conditions frequently disrupt critical construction operations during the rainy season.
Projects Expected to Boost Economic Growth
Upon completion, the ongoing federal road projects are expected to significantly improve transportation infrastructure, facilitate trade and commerce, reduce travel time, and stimulate economic growth across Cross River State and the wider South-South region.
The projects are also expected to enhance regional connectivity and support the Federal Government’s broader infrastructure development agenda aimed at accelerating economic transformation nationwide.
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