Lagos-Calabar Highway: Hitech begins social impact projects for displaced communities

Hitech Construction has commenced social impact and livelihood restoration initiatives for project-affected communities along the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, LCCH.

In March 2024, the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project officially began, with reports stating that the project was expected to displace residents from around 750 houses.

Hitech Construction, in a statement by its Community Relations Manager, Prince David Omaghomi, however, said the LCCH would cover communities from Oniru to Eleko in section 1 of the project.

Omaghomi stated that the first phase of these initiatives would begin with a vocational skills training programme, designed to equip individuals with technical and creative skills tailored to their interests, local economic demands and emerging opportunities.

According to him, the training would ensure selected persons from vulnerable groups that were ineligible for compensation, were able to gain practical knowledge to secure sustainable livelihoods both during and after the project.

He stated: “As a responsible contractor, we recognise that large-scale infrastructure projects impact local communities. Beyond compensation handled by the Federal Government, we have taken proactive steps to ensure that vulnerable groups and those not eligible for compensation are not left behind. Our social impact initiatives, starting with vocational training, are part of our broader commitment to long-term community development. The training program is carefully structured to match participants’ passion and market needs, ensuring relevance and long-term sustainability. Skills covered include solar Power and electrical, masonry, plumbing, painting & design, mechanical repairs, welding & fabrication, heavy-duty equipment operations, auto repairs & body works, agriculture, and aquaculture from sustainable burrow pit management.

“Videography, photography, digital media, tech skills, fashion design, shoe-making (cobblers), soap making, and other livelihood skills tailored to local community demands. This initiative is not a one-size-fits-all approach—Hitech Construction remains flexible in adjusting programs to meet the evolving socio-economic needs of PACs, ensuring maximum impact and long-term sustainability.

“Beyond vocational training, Hitech Construction is committed to empowering local communities by providing socio-economic opportunities throughout the project lifecycle. Infrastructure rehabilitation in affected areas (road maintenance, flood abatement, boreholes, etc.) Supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs to drive community development. Fostering environmental sustainability in line with ESIA best practices.