Work has commenced on the Calabar axis of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project.
There is ongoing construction activity stretching through the Awi forest in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The site, located off the Calabar-Ikom expressway near Odukpani junction, bears twin signposts announcing the project under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Works and executed by HITECH Construction Company Limited.
The project area presents a challenging mix of topography—dense forests, hilly terrains, rocky formations, and swampy stretches.
Large trees have been felled and mangrove vegetation cleared to make way for the new road corridor linking Cross River and Akwa Ibom States.
Many heavy-duty machines, including excavators, bulldozers, and swamp buggies, are at work across the site, filling the air with the constant hum of engines and the rhythmic clatter of construction.
Despite the difficult landscape, engineers and workers have pressed on, carving through rock and levelling hills to prepare the ground for the concrete pavement.
When our reporter visited the site, about five kilometres of the roadbed had been graded and readied for base installation.
It was also observed that earthworks extend deep into the forest, where teams are clearing wider stretches to shape the highway alignment.
Workers at the site say operations continue daily despite the rainy season posing a major challenge.
One worker explained: “The terrain is difficult, but progress is steady.
”The teams, including expatriate engineers, resume each morning accompanied by security personnel and work until evening.”
The contrast between this section and the Lagos axis of the highway is evident in the pace of progress.
While the Lagos side advances faster on flat terrain, the Calabar end moves more slowly due to its rugged landscape.
Commissioner for Works in Cross River State, Ankpo Pius Edet, told doubters that the project is ongoing at point 001 in Cross River.
He described it as evidence of the Renewed Hope Agenda in Cross River.
Edet said President Tinubu had demonstrated his creative mind by opening up an area that had no road before.
On construction difficulties, he said: “These challenges will affect the timeframe of the project.
“These challenges are natural and inevitable. But they are pushing.
”People should understand the differences in terrain.
“The contractor is also complying with the local content aspect of the project because our people are participating in the project.
”The people of Cross River are also participating in the project.”
“Some are supplying sand, and others are artisans.
“HITECH has been here for over 20 years, so they understand the terrain.”
A HITECH official, who identified himself simply as Engr. Elias told our reporter: “We have gone far on the project.
“If you come in a few weeks, you will see more.”
