Emmanuel Ochayi
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has endorsed a N5.5 billion budget to construct access roads that will serve communities along the Abuja light rail project.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, after this week’s cabinet meeting, has set a new trajectory for the long-abandoned rail project.
Wike said, “Today, the council approved the award of a contract for the construction of access roads for the Abuja light rail. We are aware that Mr. President has given a directive that very soon he will want to ride on the right rail.”
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He went on to emphasize the critical role of these access roads in realizing the President’s vision, adding, “Now, that would not be possible if there were no access roads for commuters in the communities around. Last week, the council approved lot 3, but this had to do with lot 4.”
“Lot 4 has to do with communities around the airport. If we don’t create an access road, it will be difficult. And so approved by Messers CCECC at the cost of N5.5 billion,” the Minister confirmed.
Furthermore, he highlighted the urgency of this project, revealing that the President has set a specific deadline for the completion of the Abuja light rail project, reinforcing the significance of ensuring that the access roads are ready.
In context, the Chinese firm, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation Ltd (CCECC) pledged to complete the $823 million Abuja light rail project within eight months, according to the Presidency’s statement in September. This move indicates a renewed commitment to revitalize this essential infrastructure.
The Abuja light rail project, initially commissioned by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018, fell into abandonment during the COVID-19 lockdown, making this latest development a step towards its revival and completion.
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