By LYDIA CHIGOZIE-NGWAKWE

Work has started on the Seventh Axial Road behind the Dangote Refinery, linking the Lekki Deep Sea Port corridor to Sagamu, Ogun.

The Engineer’s Representative, Mr. Damola Oyeneye, told the Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, that the contractor had mobilised to site.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Oyeneye spoke during Umahi’s inspection tour on Saturday.

NAN reports that China Harbour Engineering Company is the contractor executing the project.

“We have cleared six kilometres. Of the 12km stretch, about four kilometres are swampy, while the remainder is dry farmland.

“We are currently undertaking deep soil cleaning and sandfilling,” Oyeneye said.

Mr. Musa Saidu, a director at the Ministry of Works, said clearing had started from the coastal road under Lot One.

“They will begin filling on the alignment, which will be rigid pavement. The work, as seen, is progressing well,” he said.

Mr. Wang Jijun, Project Manager, said the firm is handling Lot One, covering site clearing, backfilling and topsoil removal.

“We have 33 units on site, but more than 120 pieces of equipment will be deployed,” Wang said.

He said lagoon sand would be sourced under four licences, following testing, to avoid community and ecological disruption.

Dr. Eugene Itua of Natural Ecocapital said the project is registered with the environment ministry, with interim clearance approved and ESIA disclosure imminent.

He added that lagoon-crossing modelling and community engagement are ongoing. (NAN)