Toba Owojaiye Reporting
The Anambra State government is embarking on an ambitious project to introduce a comprehensive rail transport system with the goal of boosting transportation and economic growth.
This initiative aims to improve the movement of goods, stimulate commerce, and enhance daily commutes for residents throughout the state.
Architect Okey Ezeobi, the Managing Director of the state Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), announced this significant endeavor during a press briefing in Awka, the state’s capital.
The government has partnered with CPCS Transcom Limited, an esteemed international infrastructure development firm based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, to create the rail master plan.
CPCS Transcom Limited was selected as the preferred choice out of ten international organizations due to its expertise and the comprehensive bankability and feasibility studies conducted. The state government has already initiated payments for the master plan design, which will extend railways to the state’s boundaries. This expansion will lead to more affordable and efficient transportation of goods, benefiting businesses and residents alike.
Ezeobi explained the rigorous selection process, emphasizing the importance of technical and financial evaluations, as well as domestic experience in making their choice. He highlighted Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s forward-thinking leadership as a key factor in this decision.
In addition to the rail project, Ezeobi discussed an upcoming capacity-building series aimed at promoting transparency and accountability in public funds utilization. This aligns with Governor Soludo’s vision for responsible financial management and value for taxpayers. Proper training on procurement will be provided to local council leadership, with plans to integrate local council staff into the BPP for this purpose.
These transformative initiatives are set to usher in a new era of improved transportation infrastructure and responsible financial management in Anambra State, promising a brighter future for businesses and residents alike.