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FG to construct 7 additional standard gauge lines

By on May 31, 2013

Federal Government has disclosed plans to construct seven rail lines in addition to the existing and rehabilitated gauges, just as it reassured on the completion of the ongoing rehabilitation of Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail line by end of year 2013.

Idris Umar, Minister of Transport gave the hint while inaugurating the board of Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) headed by Abubakar Baraje, former acting Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Umar explained that the feasibility studies on the additional seven rail lines project would be completed by September, 2013, adding that “the result of which will be advertised for potential investors for their development under the Public Private Partnership (PPP).”

Umar added that the construction of Itakpe-Ajaokuta-Warri and Abuja-Kaduna standard gauge lines are expected to be on track next year.

Idris noted that the present administration had embarked on actualizing a 25-year plan to resuscitate and revitalize the nation’s railways system, including railway system transition, modernization as well as system stabilization.

Speaking on the review of NRC Act, Umar said the Bill has been approved by the National Council on Privatization but to be presented to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for further endorsement.

However, he tasked the newly inaugurated board to adhere to the performance agreement and ensure projects are delivered as when due.

Members of the newly constituted board are Abubakar Baraje (chairman), Iquo Minima, Sq. Ldr M. Ashu, Ibrahim Mohammed, Emma Ogbu, Austin Nwachukwu, Umar Liman, Yunusa Yahaya, Sariyu Oyawoye, Ejinima Mike, Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma, Theresa Ikwue, A. K Saliu, Wakil Aliyu, Mohammed Kabiru, Mohammed Kabiru, Rufai Mohammed, Adeseyi Sijuwade, NRC managing director; Representative of Transport Ministry, Representative of the Nigerian Ports Authority, and an expert in labour matters to be nominated by the Minister.”

 

 

 

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