The Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Highway Development Project is an ambitious infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing regional integration and economic growth across West Africa. This 1,028-kilometre (approximately 639 miles) six-lane dual carriageway will connect major cities in five countries: Abidjan in Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Accra in Ghana, Lomé in Togo, Cotonou in Benin, and Lagos in Nigeria.
The primary objective of this highway is to facilitate the seamless movement of goods and people across these nations, thereby boosting intra-regional trade and cooperation. By linking key economic centres and ports, the corridor is expected to serve as a catalyst for industrialisation and development and transform the region into a significant economic hub. The total cost of the project is estimated at approximately $15 billion (£11.6 billion). Construction is slated to commence in 2026, with completion anticipated by 2030.
The highway will traverse 82 kilometres (50 miles) in Nigeria, 520 kilometres (323 miles) in Ghana, 144 kilometres (89 miles) in Côte d’Ivoire, 90 kilometres (55 miles) in Togo, and 127 kilometres (78 miles) in Benin, featuring 63 planned interchanges to enhance connectivity.
The project is spearheaded by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), with technical studies financed by the African Development Bank (AfDB), the European Union, and contributions from the five participating countries.
The initiative is part of the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA), underscoring its continental significance.
Beyond improving transportation efficiency, the highway is expected to generate substantial socio-economic benefits.
It aims to reduce transit times, lower transportation costs, and create approximately 70,000 direct and indirect jobs during its construction and operational phases.
The enhanced connectivity is also projected to attract investments, stimulate industrial activities, and promote the development of rural areas along the corridor.
Despite its potential, the project faces challenges such as securing the full $15.6 billion (£12 billion) funding required, addressing environmental and social impacts, and ensuring coordination among the five countries involved.
Its successful implementation hinges on collaborative efforts, adequate funding, and meticulous planning to overcome the inherent challenges of such a large-scale infrastructure project. If successful, it will no doubt transform the social and economic landscape of West Africa, which is already one of the continent’s most successful regions.