The Oniru of Iruland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, Abisogun II, has called for the creation of a Coastal Communities Development Corporation to address the welfare, environmental protection, and socio-economic development of communities along Nigeria’s coastal areas.
He made the appeal in Lagos during the 2026 Femi Olomola Lecture themed “Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway: Balancing National Development, Environmental Concerns and Socio-Economic Opportunities,” organised by the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, Lagos State Chapter, in collaboration with the Association of Town Planning Consultants of Nigeria.
The monarch explained that such an institution would ensure continuous attention to the unique needs of coastal communities while maximising the benefits of major infrastructure projects along the coastal corridor.
He stressed that infrastructure plays a vital role in national development, noting that as urbanisation increases, there is a growing need for sustained investment in transport, housing, utilities, and other critical sectors.
Citing a World Bank report, he highlighted that cities are key drivers of economic growth and that strategic urban infrastructure is essential for building productive, resilient, and competitive urban centres.
He further stated that projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway go beyond road construction, describing them as investments in connectivity, economic growth, regional integration, and long-term national prosperity.
According to him, infrastructure development is not only about physical structures but also about improving livelihoods, enabling commerce, attracting investment, and enhancing the quality of life for citizens.
He commended the organisers of the lecture for sustaining the initiative in honour of the late Dr. Femi Olomola and for focusing on a theme relevant to Nigeria’s major infrastructure ambitions.
