A strong defence of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway has been made following comments by former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke, with the project described as a strategic investment that will benefit future generations.

In a statement addressed to Duke, the unnamed author recalled travelling with him along the coastline where the highway is being constructed, noting that the former governor had previously praised the vision behind the project.

The author said Duke’s recent criticism was surprising, while acknowledging that the highway is an expensive undertaking.

“Nothing of lasting value in this world is cheap or free,” the statement said, arguing that nation-building requires leaders to make bold investments capable of delivering long-term benefits.

The author maintained that President Bola Tinubu remains committed to funding the project, insisting that there is no funding shortfall and that construction is progressing with high standards of quality.

The statement also backed Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri’s commendation of the highway, describing his remarks as those of a statesman who recognises infrastructure built to international standards.

While acknowledging Duke’s right to express his views as a presidential aspirant, the author cautioned against allowing political considerations to undermine projects of national importance.

The statement urged political actors to distinguish between legitimate criticism and opposition driven by electoral ambitions, stressing that major infrastructure projects should be assessed based on their long-term value to the country.

Drawing a comparison with the United States’ Apollo space programme, the author noted that sending humans to the Moon required enormous resources but was considered necessary for national progress.

The statement concluded that the Coastal Highway should similarly be viewed as a bold investment in Nigeria’s future rather than judged solely by its financial cost.