Toba Owojaiye Reporting
Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory Minister, undertook an examination of the metro rail system as part of a recent tour.
During the tour, which occurred on a Wednesday, the Minister made a commitment to expedite the completion of the project.
This commitment aims to alleviate the transportation challenges faced by the local residents.
The Minister’s tour encompassed visits to key metro rail stations in Abuja, including the Central Metro Station, Idu Rail Station, and the Airport Rail Station. This visit was in line with his initiative to become familiar with projects outlined in his short-term plan.
Following the inspection, Wike asserted the administration’s determination to hasten the disbursement of funds to the contractors responsible for the ongoing projects.
This financial support is intended to facilitate a swift completion. Wike conveyed his dissatisfaction with the prolonged incompleteness of the rail project, attributing its current state to the damaging of certain components due to lack of completion.
Wike emphasized that the eventual completion of the rail projects would offer the citizens of FCT an efficient and seamless transportation system, ultimately reducing traffic congestion within the city.
The Abuja Metro Rail initiative holds a prominent position on the administration’s list of priorities, as they seek to promptly finalize and implement it, thereby mitigating urban traffic issues. Wike assured that the funds required for the project’s rehabilitation are available, and he intends to ensure the contractors are compensated adequately to ensure timely completion and inauguration within the upcoming months.
In addition to these remarks, Wike provided guidance to senior officials from the FCTA Transportation Secretariat, urging them to take measures to secure the stations through proper fencing. This precaution is aimed at deterring criminal activities and unauthorized access. The Minister also addressed the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, the entity overseeing the rehabilitation of the Metro Stations, urging them to enhance the quality of their work.