Landmark Beach Resort, the most sought after tourist destination in Lagos, is currently in a dispute with the Lagos State government over a planned demolition. The resort’s owner, Paul Onwuanibe, received a demolition notice in late March, sparking concerns about the impact on tourism and investment. The resort’s owner, Paul Onwuanibe, received a demolition notice in late March, sparking concerns about the impact on tourism and investment. The Lagos government claims the property falls within the designated right-of-way for the first phase of the 700-kilometer Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project.
Landmark’s value and potential job losses: According to Onwuanibe the resort, which is valued at over $200 million, houses more than 80 businesses and directly employs over 4,000 people. He also highlights its contribution of more than ₦2billion in annual taxes to the state. Additionally, the resort reportedly attracted roughly a million local and international visitors last year.
Compensation concerns and investor jitters: Onwuanibe, who purchased the land before the highway plans emerged, expressed disappointment and demanded compensation for the potential demolition. He fears the move will discourage future investments in Lagos, particularly within the tourism sector.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State government previously announced plans to remove “illegal” structures along the highway’s route. Notices were served to owners of affected properties, including Landmark. The government claims announcements regarding the 103km first phase, constructed by the Federal Ministry of Works in partnership with Lagos, were published in mid-March. The federal government initiated construction of the 700km Lagos-Calabar coastal highway, traversing nine states with spurs leading north. The first phase, a 47.47km dual carriageway, was awarded to Hitech Construction Company Ltd. and construction using concrete pavement has already begun.
The dispute between Landmark Beach Resort and the Lagos State government highlights the complexities of infrastructure development and its potential impact especially on Real estate on the Victoria Island / Oniru corridor which is the new tourism hub of Lagos.
