China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) has officially handed over the 62.8km Port Harcourt-Aba rail line to the federal government.
The project marks the completion of the first phase of the Eastern Railway Modernisation project which aims to extend rail services from Port Harcourt to Maiduguri, passing through Umuahia, Ishiagu, Enugu and Makurdi.
Speaking at the event, CCECC’s public relations officer, Mwachukwu, emphasised that funding remained the project’s greatest challenge.
He assured communities along the proposed rail corridor of continued progress once more funds are allocated.
The Federal Ministry of Transportation’s Project Supervisor, Engr Ayo Dada, received the symbolic handover documents on behalf of the ministry.
He highlighted the economic potential of the project, stating that the resumption of train services would boost the region’s economy and promised that the next phases to Umuahia and Enugu would commence soon.
Representing the managing director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Engr. Ogunade Adesegun commended CCECC for delivering the project and lauded the Minister of Transportation, Senator Saidu Ahmed Alkali, for driving the “Renewed Hope” agenda of the current administration.
He assured the public that the rail line would be efficiently utilized.
Victor Adamu, the Railway District Manager (Eastern District), reiterated the district’s commitment to protecting the rail infrastructure.
He urged community leaders to safeguard the tracks against vandalism, noting recent incidents in Elelenwa, Rivers State and Umugo, Abia State.
The handover also included additional materials to support railway operations, such as concrete sleepers, rails, elastic bars, and other accessories.
The Port Harcourt-Aba rail line is expected to significantly enhance connectivity and economic activity in the region, symbolizing a step forward in Nigeria’s rail modernization efforts.
