The Nigerian Ministry of Works has earmarked N10 billion in its 2025 budget to address legal fees and court judgment debts. The allocation, divided equally, is primarily aimed at resolving ongoing litigation tied to federal road projects, including disputes arising from the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
The ministry has faced significant challenges in advancing critical infrastructure projects designed to connect Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Among these, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway has been a focal point of contention. Works Minister Dave Umahi revealed that several lawsuits have been filed against the project due to disputes over the demolition of structures along its designated route. Despite these legal hurdles, Umahi reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to completing the highway, stressing adherence to legal frameworks and compensation for those affected.
In addition to the Lagos-Calabar project, other major initiatives like the Trans Sahara Superhighway and the Badagry-Sokoto Highway have received notable allocations in the budget. However, questions have been raised about the status of certain projects, including the Lagos-Port Harcourt Coastal Highway, which has reportedly failed to make significant progress.
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The ministry’s Information Director provided further insight into the challenges. He criticized individuals allegedly exploiting the legal system for personal gain, describing them as “fraudulent” and intent on “socketing their pipes” into government resources. Despite these setbacks, he emphasized that the ministry is complying with legal requirements, including obtaining Environmental Survey Impact Assessment (ESIA) certification and adhering to gazetted rights of way.
The director highlighted that compensation for affected parties is ongoing and that the project is fully listed in the 2023 supplementary budget. He underscored the government’s resolve to overcome the legal battles, which currently number more than six, stating that the ministry is prepared to handle the disputes while progressing with construction.
Beyond the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, the federal government has allocated N100 billion for the Trans Sahara Superhighway, which spans Calabar, Ebonyi, Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa, and terminates in Abuja’s Apo district. Similarly, the Badagry-Sokoto Highway has been allocated the same amount, reflecting the ministry’s broader efforts to improve Nigeria’s road network.
