In a significant development for Abuja’s transportation infrastructure, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike, declared that the Abuja Light Rail system is primed for commercial operations.
Following an inspection of the project on Monday, Wike revealed that the rehabilitation efforts, which cost $15 million (over ₦10 billion), have brought the rail system to completion. This refurbishment ensures that the light rail, popularly known as the Abuja Metro Line, will be officially inaugurated by President Bola Tinubu on May 27.
Wike acknowledged some minor oversights in the initial design, specifically the absence of air conditioning in the passenger waiting rooms and the lack of an elevator. Despite these omissions, he emphasized that they would not hinder the metro line’s full functionality but would rather enhance passenger comfort once addressed.
Additionally, the minister highlighted the construction of access roads connecting surrounding communities to the train stations. He stressed the importance of these roads, stating that the metro line would not serve its intended purpose without them, as residents would struggle to reach the stations.
The Abuja Light Rail project was conceived to tackle the FCT’s transportation woes, primarily the heavy traffic congestion. Completing this project is a significant step towards alleviating these issues and providing a reliable alternative for commuters in Abuja and its environs.
“Thank God Almighty that we are good to go. We are ready and you can see the facilities have been installed.
“We are happy; very very happy, and we thank God the promise President Tinubu made has been kept.
He said that Tinubu had promised to deliver the metro line to Nigerians within one year in office, adding that as a foot soldier, he has no excuse but to ensure that the promise became a reality.
He said that the operationalization of the metro line was a testimony of the reality of Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.
“We are doing well because Mr President has given us every necessary support. Assuming we are not getting the support from him, this would not have been a reality today,” he said.
He said: “We are happy with the project. It is just that we identify one or two things that were omitted during the design.
“Particularly, I believe that as a standard metro line, where the passengers will be waiting before boarding the trains, there should be air conditioners.
“I also thought that some of the stations should have had an elevator for those who are very old and those who may not have the strength to walk or climb the staircase.
“Apart from that, I think we are happy with the work that has been done and we believe Nigerians will be happy, particularly the residents of FCT.”