The Federal Ministry of Works has identified heavy rainfall and delayed compensation payments as the major factors affecting the timely execution of ongoing federal road projects in Cross River State.
The disclosure was made by the Site Controller of the Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Yinka Onafuye, during an inspection of ongoing federal road projects across the state.
The inspection formed part of the Federal Government’s accountability and quality assurance measures introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and supervised by the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, to ensure transparency and effective delivery of road infrastructure nationwide.
Supervisory Team Inspects Major Road Projects
Engr. Onafuye led the inspection alongside the South-South Zonal Supervisor, Mr. Okoli David, and the Cross River State Supervisor, Mr. Oja Johnson, visiting several sections of ongoing federal road projects, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and other strategic road corridors.
The team assessed the progress of construction works while engaging contractors on the challenges affecting project execution.
Heavy Rainfall Slowing Construction Activities
Speaking during the inspection, Engr. Onafuye explained that the heavy rainfall experienced across Cross River State during the rainy season has significantly slowed construction activities.
According to him, the projects involve rigid concrete pavement, which requires more favourable weather conditions for proper installation compared to conventional asphalt roads.
He noted that persistent rainfall often interrupts scheduled work and affects construction timelines.
Compensation Delays Affecting Project Progress
The Site Controller also identified delays in the payment of compensation to affected property owners as another major obstacle to project delivery.
He appealed to the Cross River State Government to expedite compensation payments to communities and individuals affected by the road projects, noting that unresolved compensation issues continue to delay construction activities, particularly along sections of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
According to him, resolving compensation matters would significantly improve the pace of work and enable contractors to execute the projects without unnecessary interruptions.
Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Progress
Despite the challenges, Engr. Onafuye expressed optimism over the progress of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project in Cross River State.
He disclosed that more than 12 kilometres of the Cross River section of Lagos Calabar Coastal Highway will be completed and expressed hope that the section could be ready for commissioning around the middle of 2027, subject to continued progress and the resolution of existing challenges.
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