Former Senator and businessman, Ben Murray Bruce has defended the Lagos Calabar Coastal Highway project, recalling a past experience with former Cross River State governor Donald Duke.

Murray Bruce stated that some years ago, he and Donald Duke travelled along the stretch of the coastline where the road now runs, adding that he clearly remembers Duke praise for the vision behind the project. He said that was why Duke recent comments about the project surprised him.

According to Murray Bruce, although the Coastal Highway is expensive, its long term benefits far outweigh the cost. He explained that the project represents a bold infrastructure vision capable of boosting economic growth, enhancing connectivity and opening up the coastal region for development and investment.

He noted that large scale infrastructure projects across the world often attract criticism at the initial stage due to their cost, but eventually prove to be transformative for national development. He added that the Coastal Highway would create jobs, facilitate trade and improve transportation along Nigeria coastline.

The former senator emphasized that continuity and appreciation of visionary projects are important for national progress, urging critics to look beyond immediate challenges and consider the future impact of the highway on the economy and livelihoods of Nigerians.

The Lagos Calabar Coastal Highway, which is being constructed by the Federal Government, has continued to generate mixed reactions from stakeholders, with supporters describing it as a game changer for infrastructure development, while critics raise concerns about cost, environmental impact and transparency.

Murray Bruce maintained that the project deserves support, stating that his personal experience on the coastal route reinforced his belief in its importance and potential to transform the nation infrastructure landscape.