Jonathan inspects Abuja rail, road projects

President Goodluck Jonathan on Thursday inspected ongoing works at the Abuja Light Rail project, the Abuja Airport Road and Kubwa Expressway in the Federal Capital Territory.

He expressed confidence that the incoming administration of Muhammadu Buhari will continue ‎with government’s efforts at reviving and expanding the nation’s railway network.

The President said he intends to brief Buhari on the issue before the May 29 handover date.

He harped on the need for a robust railway network in the country to reduce the cost of transportation in Nigeria.

The President thanked the FCT authorities and the Chinese ‎Civil Engineering and Construction Company (CCECC) for bringing the project to fruition, just as he congratulated Abuja residents who will enjoy the facility.

He said: “I emphasise the need to develop an effective mass transit system in the country. We cannot talk about mass transit using taxis, small cars, ‎ small buses and even the luxury buses.

“It will be too‎ expensive, until our rail system works, that is why we are emphasising on inter-city rail and intra‎-city light rail systems.”

“Of course, this government is leaving on May 29 but definitely the incoming government will have to continue. This is a noble project, it will benefit Nigerians‎, especially residents of the FCT.”

Continuing, he said: “I am quite appreciative of the level of completion, and I am quite impressed. I have‎ been wanting to come and inspect this project for a very long time but it has been so challenging in terms of my commitments.‎

“I think this period I really need to so that when I am‎ having conversation with the incoming President, I know‎ exactly what to tell him.

“I have seen it myself. I have seen the level of completion and of course, we know the usefulness of this project for us in terms of easing the movement of people in the federal capital territory. I have to congratulate Nigerians for this project.”‎

Before the President and his entourage embarked on a train ride to Idu terminus, the Minister of FCT, Bala Mohammed, disclosed that the entire stretch of the rail line will be completed in August.