Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway: A boost to Nigeria’s tourism sector
By Wale Ojo-Lanre
NIGERIA, a country blessed with diverse cultural, historical, and natural wonders, has long been recognized as a prime destination for both domestic and international tourists. However, the nation’s tourism industry has often been hampered by the lack of efficient transportation infrastructure, limiting the accessibility of some of its most alluring attractions. That is, until the unveiling of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, a transformative project that promises to revolutionize the way tourists’ experience Nigeria.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as proposed will connect the commercial nerve centre of Lagos to the vibrant, tourism-rich city of Calabar, traversing through some of Nigeria’s most captivating destinations. This landmark project, once completed, will not only enhance connectivity but also unlock a world of opportunities for the nation’s tourism sector.
Obudu Ranch: A Magnificent Getaway
NESTLED in the breath-taking hills of Cross River State, Obudu Ranch is a true gem of Nigeria’s tourism landscape. This picturesque destination, with its temperate climate, lush vegetation, and stunning vistas, has long been a favourite among both domestic and international visitors. However, the journey to Obudu Ranch has been a challenge, often requiring arduous travel through winding roads.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will change all that, providing a smooth and efficient route for tourists to access this enchanting retreat. With the road in place, visitors will be able to easily travel from Lagos to Obudu Ranch, experiencing the beauty of the Nigerian countryside along the way. This increased accessibility will undoubtedly attract more tourists to this magnificent destination, boosting the local economy and showcasing the country’s natural wonders.
Calabar Export Free Zone and Tinapa: Catalysts for Economic Growth
THE coastal highway also holds significant implications for the Calabar Export Free Zone and Tinapa, two of Nigeria’s most prominent economic hubs. The Calabar Export Free Zone, a hub for international trade and investment, has the potential to thrive even further with the improved connectivity provided by the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. Tinapa, a world-class leisure, entertainment, and business resort, will also benefit from the increased accessibility, drawing in more visitors and investors.
These economic powerhouses, when combined with the natural beauty of Calabar, the city’s rich cultural heritage, and the legendary Calabar Carnival, create a tourism juggernaut that will undoubtedly attract visitors from around the world. The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will serve as the vital link, seamlessly connecting these diverse attractions and unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s tourism industry.
A Transformative Vision for Nigeria’s Future
THE Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is more than just a transportation project; it is a transformative vision for Nigeria’s future. By enhancing connectivity and accessibility, this landmark endeavour will open up new avenues for economic growth, cultural exchange, and sustainable development. The positive impact on the tourism industry, in particular, cannot be overstated.
As Nigeria continues to position itself as a premier destination for travellers, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will be a game-changer, providing a smooth and efficient means for visitors to explore the country’s most captivating attractions. From the majestic Obudu Ranch to the vibrant Calabar Export Free Zone and Tinapa, this road will serve as a vital link, unlocking a world of possibilities for Nigeria’s tourism industry and the nation as a whole.
God blessed the day that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu conceived the idea of this road that will transform its path from Lagos, Ogun, Ondo to Calabar. I congratulate Nigeria and Nigerians for this wonderful project. I pray for more of these projects that can radically change the story of Nigeria from glory to glorious to greater Nigeria!
* Ojo-Lanre, Director-General, Bureau of Tourism Development, Ekiti State, wrote in this piece
