The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, chaired the 23rd Ministerial Steering Committee Meeting of the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Highway Development Project in Lomé, Togo. As Chairman of the Steering Committee, Umahi led discussions on one of West Africa's most significant regional infrastructure projects. The project aims to improve connectivity, facilitate trade, strengthen economic cooperation, and promote shared prosperity across the region. The meeting brought together key stakeholders from participating countries and development partners to review progress on the project.
The meeting follows the 23rd Technical Meeting of the Committee of Experts, which was held on October 26 and 27, 2026. The experts reviewed progress across all project components and discussed strategies for advancing the technical studies required for the successful delivery of the highway. They also covered the project's right of way, a critical requirement for construction activities, and the continued operationalisation of the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Management Authority (ALCoMA).
The Steering Committee was expected to receive, consider, and adopt the report and recommendations of the Technical Meeting. This provided an opportunity for ministers to review the technical team's findings, deliberate on outstanding issues, and agree on the next steps required to move the project forward. The African Development Bank (AfDB) also presented an update on the status of investment financing mobilisation for the project.
As Mandatory Lead Arranger, the AfDB's presentation enabled the Steering Committee to provide feedback on the progress made and the actions required to advance the financing process. Additionally, the ALCoMA Board of Directors presented reports and recommendations of its first and second meetings for consideration by the Steering Committee. The ministers deliberated on the submissions and considered and approved relevant resolutions where necessary.
Under President Bola Tinubu's administration, the Federal Ministry of Works, led by Senator Umahi, has continued to pursue infrastructure development as a strategic tool for unlocking economic opportunities and improving connectivity. The Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Highway Development Project is a major regional undertaking designed to strengthen links between West African economies, support trade, ease cross-border transportation, and deepen economic integration among participating countries.
The project is expected to strengthen transport links among countries along the Abidjan-Lagos corridor and improve the movement of people, goods, and services across national borders. The meeting in Togo brought together key stakeholders to review progress and discuss strategies for advancing the project. The Steering Committee's deliberations will help to ensure sustained progress on the project.
The Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Highway Development Project is a critical infrastructure project that will have a significant impact on the region's economic development. The project's success will depend on the continued collaboration and cooperation of all stakeholders involved. With Senator Umahi leading the Steering Committee, the project is expected to move forward, improving connectivity and economic opportunities across West Africa.
Key points
- The Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Highway Development Project aims to improve connectivity, facilitate trade, and strengthen economic cooperation across West Africa.
- The project is expected to strengthen transport links among countries along the Abidjan-Lagos corridor and improve the movement of people, goods, and services across national borders.
- The Steering Committee's deliberations will help to ensure sustained progress on the project.
