Fed Govt reroutes Lagos–Calabar coastal highway through Ogoni land
The Federal Government has approved the rerouting of a section of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway to pass through Ogoni land. Works Minister David Umahi announced this on Wednesday in Abuja
The Federal Government has approved the rerouting of a section of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway to pass through Ogoni land.
Works Minister David Umahi announced this on Wednesday in Abuja during a night of tributes for the late Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Mpigi Barinada Barry.
Umahi said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took the decision in recognition of the late lawmaker’s contributions to national infrastructure.
The minister described the development as a measure to preserve his legacy.
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He noted that the late senator played key roles in several ongoing projects, including the Bodo–Bonny Road, the redesigned Eleme–Onne Road, and sections of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, which are set for inauguration.
The night of tributes drew political leaders, traditional rulers, and stakeholders from Ogoni land and beyond.
Umahi described Mpigi’s death as a loss to the country and the infrastructure sector, saying it was unfortunate the lawmaker would not witness the completion of projects he supported.
In a statement yesterday in Abuja by the ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Ahmed, the minister expressed sorrow over the senator’s death, acknowledging his contributions to national development.
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Umahi said his working relationship with the late Mpigi was strengthened through the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, which gave him an insight into the late senator’s character.
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The minister described the lawmaker who represented Rivers South-East Senatorial District as consistent and dependable.
He added that Mpigi’s approach to public service stood him out.
The minister noted that Mpigi was known for fostering cooperation across party lines, recalling his involvement in the emergence of Godswill Akpabio as the Senate President.
He added that the late senator stood for infrastructure development beyond his constituency, citing projects across several states.
Umahi recalled that as the chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Mpigi strengthened legislative oversight and collaboration with the ministry, contributing to the delivery of major road projects.
He cited the Bodo–Bonny Road and the Eleme–Onne section of the East–West Road as areas where the late senator intervened to resolve challenges.
The minister assured the late senator’s family of continued government support, promising that efforts would be sustained to realise the development goals the late senator promoted.
“We will not forget his family, his community, and his good intentions for Nigeria. His legacy of integrity, patriotism, and service will continue to guide ongoing infrastructure development,” Umahi added.
