The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has given the green light to the design of the $15 billion Lagos-Abidjan corridor highway project, a key initiative aimed at boosting regional economic integration.
The approval was announced during the 21st Ministerial Steering Committee meeting, held in Lagos, Nigeria, and chaired by Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Dave Umahi.
Umahi noted that the highway project, which was first conceived in 2013, has received significant financial backing from the African Development Bank (AfDB). Over the last 11 years, progress has been made on various aspects, including design development, environmental impact assessments, and funding strategies. The approval of the design now paves the way for the project to enter the procurement phase.
“The project’s design, environmental and social impact assessment, and funding mechanisms have been ongoing for 11 years. Today, we are reviewing the final design and moving towards procurement in the near future,” said Umahi.
Ghana’s Minister of Roads and Highways, Francis Boakye, also highlighted the importance of infrastructure in driving socio-economic growth. He stressed that well-developed roads, such as the Lagos-Abidjan highway, would strengthen trade, tourism, and economic activities, drawing comparisons to the economic boost the United States experienced through its national highway system.
Boakye reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to the project, emphasizing its importance for advancing regional economic integration across West Africa.
Once completed, the Lagos-Abidjan highway is expected to significantly enhance trade, transportation, and cooperation among West African nations, benefiting millions and fostering sustainable economic development in the region.
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