President Muhammadu Buhari has reiterated the resolve of his administration to boost socio-economic development of Nigeria by linking all states with efficient rail system.
He made the pledge on Tuesday at Idu District, Abuja, while inaugurating the Abuja-Kaduna rail line, which was jointly financed by the Federal Government of Nigeria and China Exim Bank.
In the same vein, he assured that all major commercial and production centres would be linked with the rail system to ensure rapid economic development nationwide.
His words, “As we celebrate the symbolic return of rail service today, I wish to reiterate the commitment of this administration to pursue with greater vigour and determination rehabilitation and construction of other rail lines including the major Lagos-Calabar and Kano-Lagos lines.
“I wish to assure Nigerians that most state capitals and major commercial and production centres will be linked with railway system as a way of bringing about rapid socio-economic development and improving the quality of life of the Nigerian and promoting social & regional integration.
“Furthermore, I wish to also reassure Nigerians that due attention will be placed on pursuing the 25-Year Strategic Railway Master Plan, which is aimed at rehabilitating the existing 3,505km narrow gauge rail line and developing and constructing new standard gauge rail lines across the country.
“It is on record that between 1963 and early 1980s, Nigeria had a vibrant rail system, which conveyed agricultural and livestock and solid mineral resources to Lagos and Port Harcourt sea ports from where they were exported to other parts of the world.’’
”Completion and commissioning of this project is indeed in keeping with our vision of bringing about the desired change to make life easier for the generality of Nigerians through the development and provision of the necessary social and physical infrastructure.”
Speaking, Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi disclosed that the Abuja-Kaduna rail line was initiated by the Olusegun Obasanjo regime and was partially executed by the Goodluck Jonathan administration before completion by the Buhari administration.
