A transformative transportation project, the Abidjan-Lagos Highway Corridor, is poised to connect five key countries in West Africa. This 1,028-km (639 miles) coastal highway will link Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria, facilitating easier movement for people and goods across the region. The initiative aims to enhance regional trade and development, with significant investments already secured.
The plans for the highway gained substantial traction during the 2022 Africa Investment Forum Market Days in March, where it attracted a major investment of $15.6 billion (£11.8 billion). This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) and its eight founding partners to strengthen infrastructure across Africa. Notably, the AfDB has already allocated $25 million (£18.9 million) for the project’s preparatory phase.
Impact on Economic Growth and Employment
Once completed, the Abidjan-Lagos Highway will feature four to six lanes, expanding to eight lanes in the metropolitan area of Lagos. This major infrastructure will connect key economic hubs, including Abidjan, Takoradi, Accra, Lomé, Cotonou, Porto-Novo, and Lagos. By 2050, it is projected that these areas will be home to around 173 million residents, highlighting the increased demand for efficient transportation.
The highway is expected to create numerous job opportunities, particularly benefiting women and young people in the region. The transport sector currently accounts for between 5% and 8% of the GDP in West Africa, underscoring its vital role in economic development. The corridor will also include the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, which is set to expand from four lanes to ten lanes, integrating a light rail system and a bus rapid transit system to further enhance transportation efficiency.
Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026 and will unfold in three phases. The project will cover a 295-km (183 miles) stretch from Abidjan to Takoradi, a 466-km (289 miles) section from Takoradi to Akanu, and a final 320-km (198 miles) route to Lagos, passing through Lomé and Porto-Novo. Additionally, eight border posts will be established along the corridor to facilitate cross-border trade and movement.
The new highway represents a significant investment in the future of West Africa, with the potential to reshape the region’s economic landscape. This ambitious project not only aims to improve transportation but also to foster greater economic integration and collaboration among the participating nations.
