The Federal Ministry of Works has prohibited commercial motorcycles, popularly known as okada, and commercial tricycles, commonly called Keke Marwa, from operating on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, reinforcing the government’s commitment to safeguarding one of Nigeria’s largest road infrastructure projects while improving traffic safety.
The ministry said the restriction forms part of broader measures designed to preserve the newly completed sections of the coastal corridor, reduce accidents, and ensure the highway delivers its intended economic and transportation benefits over the long term.
According to the ministry, commercial motorcycles and tricycles will not be permitted to ply the expressway because their operations present heightened safety risks on high-speed highways. Authorities also argue that limiting slower and more vulnerable vehicles will help maintain smooth traffic flow and reduce congestion as more sections of the road become operational.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is one of the Federal Government’s flagship transport projects, stretching across Nigeria’s southern coastline and designed to improve connectivity between major commercial centres. The multi-billion-naira highway is expected to facilitate trade, enhance tourism, reduce travel times, and strengthen logistics networks linking several coastal states.
Officials believe protecting the road from activities that could accelerate wear and tear is essential to maximising returns on the country’s substantial infrastructure investment. Restricting commercial motorcycles and tricycles also aligns with international highway safety standards, where access is typically limited to vehicles capable of operating safely at expressway speeds.
The latest directive could affect thousands of commercial riders who rely on the corridor for daily income. While the restriction may require operators to seek alternative routes, transport analysts note that separating slower vehicles from high-speed traffic could significantly reduce crash risks and improve overall road efficiency.
The policy also reflects the Federal Government’s broader strategy of strengthening transport infrastructure while enforcing operational standards on newly developed road networks. As additional phases of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway are completed, authorities are expected to introduce further traffic management measures, including speed regulations, designated entry and exit points, and enhanced enforcement to protect the asset.
Industry observers say maintaining strict access controls will be critical to preserving the highway’s lifespan, reducing maintenance costs, and ensuring the project delivers lasting economic value. The success of the initiative will ultimately depend on consistent enforcement, public compliance, and the availability of alternative transport routes for affected operators.
