Abidjan -Lagos Corridor Highway project: To make transportation accessible, affordable – Appiah

Ag. Director, Directorate of Transport Development, ECOWAS Commission , Mr. Chris Appiah, speaks with Stanley Ihedigbo, on the Abidjan -Lagos Corridor Highway project, the progress and benefits.

Can you tell us about the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Highway project?

Yes, the project aims to construct a six-lane highway from Abidjan in Cote D’Ivoire to Accra in Ghana, through Lome in Togo, Cotonou in Benin Republic, and ending at Mile 2 in Lagos. The objective is to fast-track regional integration and make transportation accessible and affordable.

What is the current status of the project?

We are at the end of the technical studies phase and will soon commence financial discussions to select financiers for the project. We expect to start construction by the end of 2026.

“The project will increase regional trade by 40%, reduce transportation costs by 40%, and contribute to economic growth and improved standard of living”

How will the project be funded?

We are targeting the private sector as the main financier, and we will also explore public sector funding options. We will have road shows, investors’ roundtables, and other forums to attract financiers.

What are the benefits of the project?

The project will increase regional trade by 40%, reduce transportation costs by 40%, and contribute to economic growth and improved standard of living. It will also facilitate trade, tourism, education, and healthcare in the region.

What challenges have you faced, and how have you addressed them?

We faced challenges such as harmonizing design standards, addressing government changes, and managing different political regimes. We have addressed these challenges by establishing a harmonized design standard, putting in place a single management authority, and ensuring political will from the highest level.

What message do you want to send to the public?

We want the citizens of the five countries to know that we are finally at the end of the technical studies phase, and we will soon commence the executive phase of the project. We urge them to continue supporting us as we move forward.