FG bans okada, tricycles on Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway

The Federal Government has banned the operation of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as okada, and tricycles (keke marwa) on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as part of measures to protect the newly constructed road infrastructure.

The directive, which takes immediate effect, was announced by the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, Olufemi Dare. He said the decision was aimed at preventing misuse of the multi-billion-naira highway and preserving its long-term integrity.

According to Dare, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is a strategic national asset built to international standards, and its sustainability depends on strict traffic management and adherence to operational guidelines.

“The decision was introduced to protect the newly constructed superhighway from misuse and deterioration,” he said, adding that restricting low-speed commercial vehicles would help maintain safety and preserve the road’s quality.

In addition to the ban on motorcycles and tricycles, the Federal Government also prohibited indiscriminate parking of heavy-duty trucks and articulated vehicles along the highway, its shoulders and bridges.

The Ministry of Works further warned against dumping refuse within the highway corridor, describing the practice as illegal and punishable under existing environmental laws.

To enforce the new regulations, the ministry said it had partnered with relevant security agencies and state authorities to establish dedicated enforcement teams along the route. Warning signs indicating the restrictions have also been installed at major entry points and interchanges.

According to the ministry, the enforcement teams will monitor compliance, impound offending vehicles and ensure that violators are prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Dare urged motorists, transport unions and residents to comply with the new directives, stressing that protecting the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway would ensure Nigerians derive maximum economic and social benefits from the landmark infrastructure project.

He added that the government remains committed to maintaining the highway as a safe, efficient and world-class transport corridor capable of supporting economic growth and regional connectivity.