The Federal Government has assured that the 25km access road linking Lekki Deep Seaport to Epe and Ijebu-Ode will be completed within the planned 21-month timeframe.

The assurance was given by the Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, during an inspection of the project in Lagos on Sunday. He described the road as a highly viable project that is progressing on schedule.

Umahi expressed confidence in China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), the contractor handling the project, noting its proven track record on major projects such as the Lekki Deep Seaport, Keffi–Makurdi Super Highway, and the ongoing Makurdi–Enugu Road.

“The project spans 50km in total, with 25km by two carriageways, six lanes, and major bridges measuring 3.5km and 2.4km. I am confident that China Harbour will complete this job within 21 months,” Umahi said.

The Minister revealed that the Federal Government had paid 30% of the project cost, while CHEC would source the remaining 70% under an Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Finance (EPC+F) arrangement. The loan will be repaid through tolls on the corridor once operational.

Umahi said feasibility studies confirmed the project’s profitability and noted that China Harbour will have the right of first refusal for its operation and maintenance. He also emphasized the transparency of the financing arrangement, involving the Debt Management Office, Ministry of Finance, and Attorney-General, ensuring strict adherence to due process.

Challenges such as redesigning a section over a lagoon and a shrine on the corridor were acknowledged, but the Minister assured they would not impede progress. “If the people do not remove the shrine, I will come and remove it myself,” he warned.

Project engineers confirmed that the road, which began in September, is designed as a three-lane dual carriageway on Continuously Reinforced Concrete Pavement (CRCP), with environmental and technical challenges already addressed.

China Harbour Managing Director Jason Wang assured stakeholders that the company is committed to delivering a high-quality project without excuses.