The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, announced that the Abuja Light Rail is ready for commercial operations. Following his inspection of the project in Abuja on Monday, Wike stated that $15 million (over N10 billion) was spent on the rehabilitation effort.
He assured FCT residents that the light rail, also known as the Abuja Metro Line, will be inaugurated by President Bola Tinubu for commercial use on May 27.
Wike expressed his gratitude, noting that all necessary facilities have been installed and that they are prepared to commence operations.
Wike emphasized that President Tinubu’s promise to deliver the metro line within his first year in office has been fulfilled.
He described himself as a dedicated supporter of the President’s agenda and stressed his obligation to ensure this promise became a reality.
The operationalization of the metro line is seen as a tangible result of Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, according to Wike.
The minister attributed the project’s successful delivery to the extensive support from President Tinubu.
He stated that without the President’s backing, the completion of the metro line would not have been possible.
However, Wike pointed out some design omissions in the project, specifically the lack of air conditioning in the passenger waiting rooms and elevators at some stations.
He noted that while these omissions do not impede the operation of the metro line, addressing them would enhance passenger comfort.
Wike acknowledged that during full operations, the inclusion of air conditioning in waiting areas and elevators at stations for elderly and less mobile passengers should be considered.
Despite these issues, he expressed satisfaction with the overall work and confidence that FCT residents would appreciate the project.
Additionally, Wike highlighted that access roads have been constructed to connect various communities to the train stations, ensuring that residents can reach the stations easily.
He emphasized the importance of these access roads for the effective utilization of the metro line.
The project was initially designed to address transportation challenges, including heavy traffic and congestion in the FCT and surrounding areas, according to the News Agency of Nigeria
(NAN).
