This decision, announced by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, is aimed at recognizing President Tinubu’s long-standing vision for the project, which he conceived approximately 27 years ago while serving as the Governor of Lagos State. The announcement was made during a media briefing held in Abuja, where Umahi emphasized that the renaming was a result of consultations with the Ministry of Works’ leadership.

Umahi detailed significant developments related to Nigeria’s infrastructure, stating that President Tinubu has approved a 400-kilometre extension of the Fourth Legacy Highway, increasing its total length from 700 kilometres to an impressive 1,100 kilometres. This highway is designed to connect Akwanga in Nasarawa State to Maiduguri in Borno State, passing through notable locations including Jos, Bauchi, Gombe, and Biu. Furthermore, a notable feature of the first section of the coastal highway, spanning from Victoria Island to Lekki, includes a six-lane carriageway with a 25-metre median earmarked for a future railway line.

In addition to these projects, the minister also highlighted that plans have been approved for the dualisation of another 400 kilometres of the East-West Road, the reconstruction of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway utilizing reinforced concrete, and the completion of the previously abandoned Ibi Bridge in Taraba State. The construction of the new 5.76-kilometre Lao Bridge has also been authorized.

These initiatives underscore the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing connectivity, stimulating economic growth, and modernizing vital transport infrastructure throughout Nigeria. The collective efforts will play a crucial role in improving road networks and facilitating infrastructural development in the region.