The Federal Government has temporarily opened Section 1 of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, offering much-needed relief to commuters navigating the busy Lekki–Ajah corridor during the festive season.
The newly opened stretch spans 47 kilometres, running from the Ahmadu Bello Way junction to the Eleko village junction. Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, announced the development on Friday, noting that the move follows a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Umahi explained that the temporary opening is designed to improve traffic flow and provide easier access across parts of Lagos as travel volumes increase during the holidays. He added that the decision fulfills an earlier commitment made by the Federal Government.
During an inspection of the project on November 23, 2025, the minister had assured Nigerians that Section 1 of the highway would be completed and opened to traffic between December 12 and 17, 2025—a pledge that has now been delivered.
According to Umahi, the partial opening is expected to significantly reduce congestion and the stressful driving experience faced daily by motorists in the Lekki–Ajah axis. He noted that travel time and transportation costs could drop by more than 100 per cent once the road is in use.
Looking ahead, the minister disclosed that April 2026 has been earmarked for the full commissioning of Section 1 and half of Section 2 of the highway. He clarified that bridge construction, which falls under the Section 2 contract, will continue beyond that timeline.
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