The Federal Government has launched the Coastal Highway Guards initiative to strengthen security and protect critical infrastructure along the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.

The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, launched the initiative on Sunday with the deployment of 40 officers tasked with maintaining a visible presence along the highway and collaborating with security agencies to safeguard the road.

The guards will monitor and report suspicious activities, vandalism and other acts that could threaten the safety, security and smooth use of the highway.

They will also enforce restrictions on hawking, loitering, commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, and tricycles, or Keke, along the highway.

The initiative is being led by retired General Adekunle Shodunke, with the guards expected to work closely with relevant security agencies to ensure effective surveillance and protection of the infrastructure.

Speaking at the launch, Umahi clarified that the programme was not an empowerment scheme but a full-time employment initiative established to protect national assets.

He said the initiative was consistent with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting critical infrastructure across the country.

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is one of the Federal Government’s major infrastructure projects, spanning several coastal states and expected to improve connectivity and stimulate economic activities along Nigeria’s coastline.