Michael James
Lagos — Lekki Deep Sea Port project is now at 47% completion despite challenges imposed by COVID-19 pandemic.
This was made know by the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu during his two days working visit to the facility over the weekend.
He commended the promoters of the project, China Habour Engineering Company (CHEC) and Tolaram for demonstrating a very high sense of commitment and capability by keeping to the construction schedule and timelines.
Sanwo-Olu noted that with the 47% completion, the project would boost the nation’s commercial activities when completed and fully operational.
“We are really excited with the level of work done as we have seen here. What we have seen is actually encouraging. This project is going to transform the way we do commerce. With the completion of the project, turnaround time will be faster; movement of goods will be cheaper, we can see businesses booming and ease of doing business will be improved,” he said.
“I am excited to lead the team to work on this project. Within the last 3 months, we have made a lot of progress not only on the funding but also on the construction work. This is a demonstration of China’s commitment to the development of the Nigeria’s economy. We are trying our best to start commercial operations before the end of 2022,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Chairman of Lekki Port, Mr. Biodun Dabiri thanked the Governor for his invaluable support and assistance towards the actualization of the project since he took over the mantle of leadership in the state.
Dabiri also reminded the Governor of the urgent need to help improve the road infrastructure especially the main access road to the port from Eleko junction, which is key not only for Lekki Port but also other projects and development in the axis.
“From what I can see, in the next four to five years, the economy of the Lekki environ would be worth US$25billion which translates to NGN10trillion – an investment amount almost similar to the whole budget of Nigeria. I can tell you that if we focus on this axis alone, the ranking of Lagos as one of the largest economies in Africa would be better, we could move from the 4th to 3rd, 2nd and eventually Number 1” he stated.