We’re Not Just Building Highways,We’re Reshaping Nigeria’s Economic Geography-BAT Defends Criticism

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has defended his administration’s borrowing plans amid criticism from opposition leaders over loans obtained from international institutions and banks. He said the loans would be used to finance infrastructure projects, create jobs and support Nigeria’s economic growth.

In an essay titled “From Reforms to Delivery: Our Infrastructure Investment and Growth Strategy,” published by NIGERIAN TRIBUNE on Thursday, October 29, 20206, Tinubu explained how his administration plans to use infrastructure investments to improve the country’s economy.

Tinubu identified the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, Trans-Sahara Superhighway, electricity grid upgrades and the modernisation of major commercial ports in Lagos as key projects expected to strengthen Nigeria’s productive capacity.

The President said the projects would connect markets, reduce transportation costs, support industries, unlock agricultural potential and attract private investment. He added that investments in healthcare, education and vocational training would also contribute to economic development.

Tinubu stated that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway was expected to reduce logistics costs along its route by 15 to 20 per cent and could contribute up to two per cent to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) through increased trade, tourism and industrial activities.

He further said the highway was projected to generate about 100,000 direct jobs in construction and engineering, alongside more than 150,000 indirect jobs in logistics, building materials and related services.

In Tinubu’s words, “We are not simply building highways. We are opening economic corridors, connecting markets, unlocking industries and reshaping Nigeria’s economic geography.”