President Muhammadu Buhari has restated his administration’s commitment to the provision of critical infrastructural projects in line with the change agenda of the governing party, the All Progressives Congress, APC.
He made the declaration on Thursday, at the inauguration of the Abuja Light Rail system, completed by the current administration.
The Nigerian leader expressed optimism that the new rail system specifically put in place for use by residents of the Federal Capital Territory would boost economic activities in Nigeria’s capital city, Abuja.
“The completion of this very important project is a dream come-true. I commend the Hon. Minister of F.C.T for the hard work and sense of purpose towards the realization of this long awaited modern transportation system for both FCT residents and visitors. This accomplishment clearly demonstrates our commitment to addressing critical infrastructural projects and keeping with the ideals of the Change Agenda to ensure prudence in the management of public resources, value for money considering the huge investments in this project.
“Transportation is the live wire of any city. I am very optimistic that a modern rail service would bring about a boost to the FCT economy and greatly enhance social life. I am aware that what we have on ground today are coaches meant to provide skeletal services as we await the main set of the rolling stock for full operations,” he said.
President Buhari noted with pride that the Nigerian government is a promise keeper, stressing that government will ensure that the rails system is sustained.
He said: “Today, what we have in the Federal Capital Territory is evidence that we are a government that delivers on its promises. I have observed keenly other milestones that this Administration has achieved, especially in the areas of education, public utilities and infrastructure development.
I have been briefed on the outcome of the Hon. Ministers of F.C.T and Finance recent visit to China, during which the MOUs and agreements for the procurements of the main rolling stock were signed. May I therefore assure Nigerians of Federal Government’s continued support for all the negotiations towards the realization of the Abuja Light Rail system.”
He expressed Nigeria’s appreciation to the Chinese government for supporting the project and many others, thus further cementing the strong ties between Nigeria and China.
“I am thankful to the Government and people of China for their investment in the Nigerian economy. I commend the CCECC Limited – the Contracting Firm, for the quality of work and timely delivery of this project. Let me place on record the Nigerian government’s appreciation to the government of China and the EXIM Bank of China, for their support on this and many other projects currently being executed in Nigeria. This gesture further cements the already existing cordial relations and developmental partnership between Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China,” President Buhari stated.
He urged the Federal Capital Territory Administration, especially, the management of the rail services, to ensure efficient operations, good customer service and maintenance culture and punctuality in the operations of the rail.
High point of the event was the boarding of the train form the Abuja Metro Station to Airport Station by the President, signalling the official commencement of services by the Abuja Light Rail System.
