Members of the Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF) have asked the Federal Government to ensure the simultaneous commencement of the Coastal Superhighway project from both Calabar and Lagos ends to guarantee symmetrical development for the Cross River state. During a meeting with Engr Mrs A. R. Osim, the Acting Federal Comptroller of Works in the state, the forum emphasized the critical importance of initiating the project concurrently from both ends to dispel fears of neglect and discrimination.
Chairman of the CRSCF, Eyo Nsa Ekpo Esq., expressed concern over the historical neglect of Cross River in federal infrastructure projects and called for urgent action to address the perceived disparities. He highlighted the significance of the Coastal Superhighway as a transformative initiative that would enhance connectivity and socio-economic development in the state.
Ekpo observed that, “The distance between Calabar and Lagos is the same distance between Lagos and Calabar. We are appealing to the federal minister of works to do the same. Let the road start from the two ends simultaneously. That will reassure us that we are also part of the federal republic of Nigeria.”
In response, Engr Mrs A. R. Osim assured the forum of the government’s commitment to addressing their concerns and ensuring the timely execution of critical infrastructure projects in Cross River State. She acknowledged the challenges faced by contractors and pledged to liaise with relevant stakeholders to facilitate the swift resolution of outstanding issues hindering project implementation.
Osim affirmed, “Cross River will not be left behind in everything that you have raised concern about. We will pass across this message to the Honourable Minister. I believe attention will be given to them.”
Recall that the Lagos State Government had already started revoking Right of Occupancy and Right of Way along the path of the road. The CRSCF has observed that they are expecting a similar development in Cross River but, observed that this will happen if the coastal superhighway project is billed to commence in the state.