A committee has been set up by the Federal Government to oversee the compensation process for landowners affected by the N15tn Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway construction project. The Minister of Works, David Umahi, who launched the committee, has instructed them to complete the verification process and initiate compensation within 10 days, ending on April 28.
This initiative is aimed at expediting the construction of the project, which is expected to bring significant improvements to the country’s infrastructure. The Minister mentioned that verified claims would be promptly addressed by the contractor, Hitech Construction Limited, within 72 hours.
The Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project, spanning 700km and connecting several states along the coast, has drawn public attention due to concerns raised by stakeholders and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar about costs and procurement processes.
During the committee’s inauguration at the ministry headquarters in Abuja, the Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency in handling these compensations. Only property owners with valid titles will be eligible for compensation, while properties within the 250m shoreline setback without federal government titles will not be compensated.
The committee’s responsibilities include engaging with affected property owners, assessing compensation details, and potentially conducting on-site evaluations. The compensation amount will be determined based on the federal rate, ensuring fair remuneration.
Umahi highlighted, “We are dedicated to transparency, which is why we are establishing this committee today. The verification process will involve interacting with affected property owners, assessing compensation details, and possibly visiting the sites for evaluation.”
The Minister further explained that the compensation process would adhere to legal requirements, with only property owners holding valid titles receiving payment. Properties within the 250 meters of the road, not under federal government titles, would require a Presidential waiver for compensation.
He urged the committee to meticulously follow legal procedures in verifying and compensating the affected individuals, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the law.
Under these guidelines, the contractor will directly compensate the verified individuals, ensuring a transparent and efficient process for all parties involved.