The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has challenged critics of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project to a public debate, insisting that the project is progressing and will help unlock Nigeria’s economic potential. Umahi spoke on Sunday during a press conference and stakeholders’ engagement on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway in Lagos. The debate is on why people attack the Coastal Highway. The Minister’s defence of the project came amid sustained criticism of the coastal highway, which was flagged off in May 2024. However, Umahi maintained that the coastal highway was in the best interest of Nigerians and would contribute to opening up the country’s economy.