Emmanuel OchayiIn a move to alleviate the commuting burden for Abuja residents, President Bola Tinubu has announced the extension of free train rides on the Abuja Rail Mass Transit, also known as the Metro Rail, until the end of the year.
This announcement was made during the inauguration of the metro rail’s commercial operations on Wednesday.
Initially, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, had announced a two-month period of free rides to help residents cope with commuting costs. However, President Tinubu, addressing the crowd, appealed for an extension to provide more substantial relief.
“Our dear landlord and his team, I heard you saying two months free ride. I appeal to you to make it till the end of the year. Since today you’re not going to charge me, that will give the people hope and reasons to celebrate,” Tinubu said.
The President expressed his gratitude for the project’s re-launch, emphasizing its importance for the residents of Abuja. He described the commencement of the Metro Rail as “a dream come true” and “a demonstration of serious commitment to value,” marking a significant milestone in the administration’s progress.
“Today marks the milestone of our march towards enduring progress as a country, especially in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. As we gather here to commemorate the first anniversary of my administration, we are also celebrating the fruit of collaboration, dedication, progress, and foresight. It is with immense pride and gratitude, that I stand before you to flag off the relaunch of commercial operations of the Abuja Mass Transit Rail programme, known commonly as Abuja Metro,” he said.
READ ALSO: Fuel Subsidy: Abuja Rail Transit System Set For N5 Billion Upgrade
The Abuja Light Rail Metro is seen as a symbol of progress and inclusivity. President Tinubu highlighted that the project is a testament to the administration’s commitment to modernizing transportation infrastructure, reducing traffic congestion, and enhancing accessibility for all residents and visitors.
“Abuja Light Rail Metro stands as a symbol of progress, connectivity, and inclusivity. It signifies our determination to modernize our transportation infrastructure, reduce traffic congestion in the city, and enhance accessibility to all residents, be it visitors within and outside Abuja. Today, what we have in the Federal Capital Territory is evidence that we are a government that delivers on promises,” he added.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike provided further details on the project’s background. He mentioned that the rehabilitation contract was awarded in 2018 for $30 million. The funding was secured after appeals to the Central Bank Governor, the Minister of Finance, and the Attorney General of the Federation, who approved the payments.
“The contract for the rehabilitation of this rail line was given in 2018. And it was awarded at the cost of $30 million, and that was not paid. We had to plead with the Central Bank, the Minister of Finance, and the Accountant General. And I can tell you that the Governor of the CBN and his team did everything and paid that money to CCECC. Without their support, it would not have been possible,” Wike explained.
Additionally, Wike noted that the construction of access roads to the stations, which cost N21.4 billion, was completed. These roads include car parks for residents to safely park their cars at the various stations. He emphasized that this commissioning followed the President’s directive, who had previously expressed his desire to ride on the metro rail.
“The cost of those roads, 7 slots cost us N21.4 billion. As I speak to you today, all those roads are completed, and car parks for people to use at the various stations,” Wike said.
The extension of free rides on the Abuja Rail Mass Transit until the end of the year is expected to provide significant relief to residents, improve commuting conditions, and symbolize the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and public services in the capital.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
