The Minister for the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike, has announced that the Abuja Rail Mass Transit project is on the verge of completion, with 97% of the work already done.
This disclosure was made by Wike during his tour from the Central Area’s Metro Station to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Friday, according to nairametrics.
The Minister referred to the project as a ‘dream comes true’ when he expressed his delight in the progress made.
In addition, Mr Wike disclosed plans to officially launch the Abuja Light Rail in May, just as President Bola Tinubu would be celebrating his first year in office. As part of the celebrations marking his administration’s anniversary, President Tinubu has already approved the timetable for the inauguration of several projects, including the ART.
“We are very happy. We are almost 97% completed. All works are ongoing to make sure that the May delivery date is a reality.
“I believe this is one of the projects Mr President would like to inaugurate because it is very key to the development of the economy.
“For me, it is a dream comes true, and we are happy that after all is said and done, the metro line will be put to use for Nigerians, come May 29,” he said.
Wike, in the course of his inspection tour, was given a 30-minute train journey from the Abuja Metro Station to the airport after which he stated his preference for rail transport as opposed to conventional road travel due to its convenience.
He paid tribute to their efficiency and ensured the completion of renovation works at stations in time for planned commissioning in May, thanks to the Chinese civil engineering construction corporation CCCCECC), which has been entrusted with this project.
He commended the efforts of the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the contractor responsible for the project, for their efficiency and assured completion of the renovation works on the stations before the scheduled commissioning in May.
Minister Wike has taken a cautious approach to the question of the possible extension of rail lines to high-traffic areas in the capital city. In particular, he stressed the need for a step-by-step assessment taking into account financing implications.
