Envisioning a transformative impact on Cross River State, Mr. Erasmus Ekpang, the Commissioner for Information, sheds light on the promising prospects tied to the proposed construction of the Lagos-Calabar coastal superhighway.
Emphasizing the dual benefits of heightened tourism and agricultural expansion, Ekpang anticipates that this ambitious infrastructure project will not only enhance connectivity but also serve as a catalyst for economic development in the state.
According to vanguardngr.com, the commissioner, who spoke in an interview with Newsmen in Calabar on Tuesday, said that the coastal super highway was long overdue.
President Tinubu had on Monday, at the Federal Executive Council meeting, approved the construction of the coastal road.
According to Ekpang, the road when completed, will improve on the economy of Cross River and other states within the corridor of the coastal road.
He commended the president for his foresight and approval of the project.
”I want to sincerely thank Mr President and God for giving us the people’s governor, Bassey, whom during a short spam as governor of the state has attracted good luck to the state bringing back the lost glory of the state.
“For us in Calabar, it’s long overdue because of our location geographically. Surrounded by the waterways to the south almost one route out of the state capital, the Calabar -Itu road which has been a night mare to commuters, though under construction.
“The road when constructed will boost tourism, as the state is a tourism hub of the country. It will ensure easy access to Calabar from the Western and Eastern part of the country.
“It will also boost agriculture and trade within these states because transportation will be eased. Of course, it will greatly improve the economy of the state and many more,” he said.
The commissioner further said that the road would create employment for the teaming youth involved in trading along the routes, taking off criminal activities.
The coastal road, a total of 700km, will be constructed in phases, beginning with the construction of 47km from Lagos in the first phase.
The project with plan to incorporate rail lines within the median strips of the main roads, enhancing transportation flexibility, will be constructed by Hitech construction Africa.
