Nigeria’s coastline has been sitting quietly—long, beautiful, and mostly untouched—for years. Aside from the usual Lagos beach spots like Elegushi and Tarkwa Bay, most Nigerians don’t get to explore our other seaside gems. But with the new Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway underway, that’s beginning to change.
Not because they don’t want to, but because getting there felt like preparing for a journey through the wilderness. That’s starting to change.
With the new Lagos–Calabar Coastal highway in the works, things are beginning to look different. The idea is simple: connect Lagos to Calabar through a long stretch of road that hugs the coastline.
But the impact is enormous, especially for people who love peace, water, fresh seafood, and clean sand.
Let’s break it down.
So, What’s This Coastal Road All About?
The new Lagos–Calabar Coastal highway is a federal road project spanning over 700km. It starts from Lagos and cuts across several coastal states, eventually ending in Calabar, Cross River.
This includes Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River State.
The highway is being built in phases, and when it’s entirely done, it will link all these areas smoothly and directly. There will be no more long detours through the back of nowhere or surviving broken roads just to get from Lagos to somewhere like Uyo or Calabar.
But more importantly for tourists? It’s making many of Nigeria’s quiet, almost-hidden gems and beaches easier to reach.
Why This Road Matters (Beyond Politics)
Let’s put the politics and drama aside for a second. Whether you’re for or against the government, one thing is clear: we need better roads. And this one might serve a lot of people.
Here’s why it matters:
- It connects people to the coast, not just the cities.
- It opens up space for local tourism and business.
- It gives Nigerians a reason to explore beyond the usual spots.
The new Lagos–Calabar Coastal highway is not just a road for container trucks or interstate travellers. It’s for everyday Nigerians, especially those looking to explore the coastline without flying or getting lost.
Imagine driving from Lagos to Akwa Ibom without praying for your car to survive. No more detours through pothole-filled inland roads or relying on flights that may or may not be delayed three hours.
Second, the new Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway is designed to do more than carry cars. It’s expected to attract investments, support local economies, and open up areas previously cut off from mainstream tourism.
Finally, this project could change the lives of those in or around the cities it connects. Jobs, markets, and tourism opportunities are all on the horizon.
Beaches That Could Benefit Big Time
Now let’s talk about what makes this all exciting, the beaches. Nigeria has some truly stunning coastal spots that most people have never seen, but they could change fast with better access.
1. Ibeno Beach, Akwa Ibom
This is one of the longest beaches in Africa, but it’s still a mystery to many Nigerians: calm waves, soft sand, and vast open space. With the new highway, visiting from anywhere in the country becomes easier.
2. Okun Beach, Badagry (Lagos side)
If you want a beach that’s not as packed as Lekki’s popular ones, Badagry offers something more relaxed and historic. Once the road improves, expect more people heading that way for day trips and staycations.
3. James Town Beach, Cross River
A lesser-known spot that’s peaceful and scenic. You won’t find music blasting or crowds dancing, but it’s perfect for quiet views and calm vibes.
4. Agaja Beach, Ogun State
If this highway opens up properly, tucked between towns and only reachable by boat or long, bumpy roads, Agaja might become one of Nigeria’s new favourites.
With better access to these spots, you’ll see weekend trips, family picnics, and even small tourism businesses spring up around them. That means more local income and more beach memories for the rest of us.
ALSO READ: Best Beaches in Southern Nigeria
What This Means for Local Businesses
This road isn’t just a win for travellers. It’s a big one for business, too.
Here’s what could happen:
- More beachside resorts will pop up.
- Food vendors and markets near beach areas will get more customers.
- Transport businesses will offer road trips and shuttle services.
- Young people with ideas, tour guides, photographers, or even boat ride hustlers will finally have a real chance to earn money.
The truth is, when people can reach you easily, everything changes. That’s what the new Lagos–Calabar Coastal highway promises: connection.
Let’s Look at the Environmental & Cultural Concerns
Now, let’s keep it real. Not everyone is clapping for this project. Some experts and community leaders have raised concerns about:
- Coastal erosion
- Displacement of communities
- Impact on wildlife and marine ecosystems
And they have a point. Development is sweet, but it must be done with sense. It’s essential that the government listens, adjusts plans, and finds ways to protect both people and nature. If not, we risk turning paradise into parking lots; nobody wants that.
My Two Cents
The new Lagos–Calabar Coastal highway is more than another construction project. It’s an invitation to explore Nigeria’s coastal beauty in a way we’ve never done before. It’s an opportunity to discover beaches without hopping on a flight or navigating broken roads.
This road could be the game-changer for the student who’s never seen the Atlantic Ocean up close, the hustler looking to set up a food stand near a tourist beach, or the jaded city worker needing a real vacation.
So, whether you’re a dreamer, a business owner, or someone who loves sand between your toes, one thing’s sure: the new Lagos–Calabar Coastal highway is taking all of us somewhere. Hopefully somewhere sunny.
Discover unforgettable eco-tourism and adventure experiences across Nigeria — from rainforest hikes to scenic waterfalls — in our curated guide to sustainable travel.
FAQs: New Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway
1. What exactly is the new Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway?
It’s a 700 km coastal road project connecting Lagos to Calabar, aimed at improving road access along Nigeria’s southern coastline. It’s still under construction, but when completed, it will link several key states and beach areas.
2. Will the highway boost tourism?
Yes, easier access means more people visiting previously hidden or hard-to-reach coastal areas, which could benefit local economies.
3. Are there any concerns with the project?
Yes. Environmental groups have raised issues about erosion, displacement, and ecosystem damage. The project must be handled responsibly with input from affected communities.
4. Which states will benefit the most?
States like Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River all stand to gain, especially in areas with untapped tourism potential.
5. When will it be completed?
Construction has already begun in phases, but full completion may take several years. Keep your sandals ready, though, the road trip of your dreams is on the way.
