The FCT Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike, expressed satisfaction with the progress on the Abuja light rail project, reaffirming its May 29 delivery as sacrosanct.
He made these assurances after inspecting the ongoing construction of access roads to the train stations on Wednesday, from Metro Train Station in the Central Area to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
Reassuring journalists accompanying him, the minister reiterated that President Bola Tinubu would commission the rail project on May 29 to mark his one year in office.
The visited stations were Wupa station near Idu and Bassanjiwa station near the airport.
“This is part of our routine inspection of ongoing projects to see the contractors’ progress,” Wike explained.
“We are working day and night to fulfill our promise to President Tinubu and FCT residents. By May, Mr. President will ride on the Metro line.”
He stressed the importance of access roads to the stations, stating, “If you do not create access roads, the aim of the train is defeated.”
The minister acknowledged the contractors’ commitment to delivering the project.
“You heard the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation Ltd. representative say they will work day and night to complete the project,” he said.
“For me, this is a major project to reduce the influx of vehicles into the city. It will greatly benefit us.”
Regarding funding, Wike assured that the FCT Administration (FCTA) was fully prepared and had secured sources to deliver the projects.
Addressing potential security concerns for workers on site, he stated that security had significantly improved in the territory.
“If people can work at night in Abuja, it means the city is secured,” he added.
Earlier, the minister inspected the ongoing construction of a single-lane expressway from Idu Industrial Layout to Zuba, being constructed by Salini Nigeria Ltd.
Wike explained that the project was delayed due to crossing a rail line and requiring permission from the Federal Ministry of Transport to proceed.
“With approval, the contractor can progress more efficiently,” he concluded.
NAN
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